VOLUNTEERS and staff in Tullibody have taken gardening out to people's own homes during the coronavirus lockdown.

While Tullibody Community Garden had to lock the gates due to the ongoing crisis, volunteers along with staff from Tullibody Family Centre found a way to keep activities going.

They were not daunted by the fact their project supporting families in learning how to grown their own had to be put on hold.

Instead, green-fingered volunteers made up packs for growing potatoes at home in bags with staff from the "Blue Hoose" – as the family centre is known locally – delivering the kit along with food parcels.

The packs come with a bag to grow in, some compost, seeds and instructions for families to get started.

Janet Gowran, the garden volunteer who made up the "tattie packs", said: "It's great to be able to help our local families get some hands on gardening experience despite the current lockdown.

"Everyone can grow something – even if it's just some herbs on the windowsill.

"Keep an eye on the Tullibody Community Garden Facebook page for lots of links and ideas for growing, cooking, and other outdoor activities for all the family."

The original project to help families grow their own, harvest and cook with potatoes is being funded by NHS Forth Valley Nutrition and Dietetic Health Improvement Team's Food Activity Grant.

Fidelma Guest, dietician with the local health board, said: "It is great that families are interested in growing.

"I think the growing at home will have many wellbeing benefits for families – the family centre and Tullibody Community Garden are doing amazing work."

Tullibody Family Centre is run by Action for Children.

The organisation's Emma Clyne, who helps run the support service, added: "There had been a lot of interest in the 'tatties in a bag' and we were delighted to be able to deliver them to our families.

"It will be a great activity for the children to be involved in.

"We're looking forward to cultivating our own plot at the community garden when the time is right."