RESIDENTS and passers-by are being invited to help themselves to the fruits, vegetables and herbs that are now ready for picking at a communal allotment in WGC town centre.

The produce planted in Wigmores South in June is now ripe, and Welwyn Hatfield Council, which organised the project as part of the town’s 90th birthday celebrations, is telling visitors to help themselves – but to leave some for others as well.

A range of fresh, organically-grown fruit and veg is on offer, including kale and chard, beetroot, chillies, onions and sweetcorn.

A selection of herbs, including basil, fennel, thyme, lavender, parsley, oregano and sage, is also available.

Councillor Colin Couch, executive member for environment, said: “This is a small but lovely project and I am glad that the seedlings have been thriving.

“The herbs have done very well, particularly in the planters, so do pop by as often as you can for fresh sprigs and leaves for your lunch or dinner.

“It gives something back to the town and focuses on the original concept of a garden city – healthy living and self-sufficiency.”

You can lend a hand by weeding and watering the allotment as you go past. Watering cans are available from Caf� Trio in Wigmores South.