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included in the proposals for the site put forward to Okehampton United Charity.

Ongoing projects that will be carried out at the garden include selling seeds to raise funds, growing cut flowers to sell, an apple pressing day, Devon hedge building and dry-stone wall building classes, and courses on how to make jams and chutneys from the garden's produce.

John Bickley said: 'We have a range of expertise amongst the steering group to co-ordinate the development of the site. We are supported by Lois Gallimore from Home Grown Community Owned (HogCo) who fund and support many community gardens in Devon. Being part of a network gives us strength, support and great ideas.

'We are all keen gardeners or smallholders with links to gardening and local or regional organisations, environmental and community initiatives.

'In time we will appoint a garden co-ordinator but want to shape the role to our specific needs as we get nearer our annual meeting in April 2012.'

Now that the garden has approval, the team is looking for the community to send in ideas so that the project can provide exactly what is required by local people. All suggestions are welcomed, and it is hoped that some of them will help to shape the image of the garden.

The team will be posting fliers to every house in Okehampton, inviting people interested in getting involved with the project in any way, particularly as a gardener or a 'friend of the garden' to get in touch.

The invitation is also extended to those living in the Okehampton Hamlets.

During the initial construction period there will be plenty of opportunity for those interested to get involved in a hands-on capacity.

As well as raising money, the team is looking for donations of plant pots, garden equipment, seeds, and anything else that could be useful as they set up the garden.

If you wish to make a donation to the project, make it payable to Okehampton Community Garden at Upcott House, Upcott Hill, Okehampton, EX20 1SQ.

If you are interested in becoming a gardener or friend of the project, can donate any items or wish to share your opinions on what the garden should include, e-mail steering group members John and Kay Bickley on [email protected]">[email protected]