YOUNG people at Easterbrook Farm in Exbourne have begun selling vegetables they have helped to grow.

The farm is a unique residential development that offers an active learning environment for young people with learning disabilities to develop and achieve their ambitions.

Easterbrook is a working farm, and the eleven permanent residents help to maintain it. This includes general maintenance such as grass cutting, caring for animals, through to cookery, and now selling produce they grow in the vegetable garden.

While the task of looking after a farm seven days a week is challenging, the work is designed to give the youngsters enriching and fulfilling experiences.

They are also encouraged to take part in other activities, including drama, sports, arts and crafts and day trips.

The produce will be sold on a stall at the end of the farm drive.

Kevin Newberry, garden manager at the farm, said: 'The stall is doing really well so far. We've opened it up to sell some of the surplus fruit and veg and jams and chutneys, and to give the residents who live at the farm a bit of extra pocket money. The jams have sold especially well.

'We will build a shelter to protect the stall from rain and sunshine, it's just finding the time — things are often pretty busy around here.

'We have around three and a half acres of productive gardens and the residents here help to maintain them throughout the week. We grow all types of fruit and vegetables here with polytunnels and open garden.'

For more information on the farm, visit http://www.easterbrookfarm.com">www.easterbrookfarm.com