BUDDING gardeners in Bath are being offered the chance to look after their very own allotments and only pay half the price.

Anyone who chooses to rent an allotment in either Monksdale Road or Moorfields Road during the month of June will have only to pay half the normal rent until March of next year.

Pensioners, the unemployed and disabled people will receive a further 50 per cent reduction on the special introductory price.

Bath & North East Somerset Council said the move is designed to encourage more people to rent allotments so they can grow their own fruit and vegetables.

Councillor Nicole O'Flaherty, executive member for culture and leisure, said: "Allotments are a great way to enjoy a healthy outdoor activity and grow your own fresh fruit and vegetables.

"What better time to take up an allotment than now with one of our special offers?"

Bridget Sibbick, chairman of the Bath & North East Somerset Federation of Allotment Holders said growing your own food was a great hobby.

She said: "A lot of people are keen on the idea of growing their own food. It means more to them than just going to the supermarket and buying something that comes from the other side of the world."

The cost of renting an allotment on these sites depends on the size of the plot. A 50 square metre plot, which usually costs £12 for the full year, will cost £6 during June and the cost of a 125 square metre plot, which is usually £26.40 for a year, will cost just £13.20 if applied for this month.

In Bath & North East Somerset there are 41 allotment sites. The council is responsible for the 19 sites in Bath. Outside the city, responsibility remains with bodies such as parish councils.

For more information about allotments, contact the parks department on (01225) 482624.