How LFC will sow seeds in local community this season
Liverpool FC has today officially opened its first allotment that will produce fresh, organically grown produce which will be served as part of the new matchday food for supporters at Anfield.
The 1,200 square-metre allotment, situated in the stadium’s neighbouring Tuebrook area, provides a place to grow and harvest seasonal produce, including fruit, vegetables and honey, on a scale that assists the matchday catering operation.
The allotment has been sustainably designed using reclaimed wood from the Main Stand to build pathways and construct raised beds and planters for small vegetables and plants.
The club has also used mesh fencing from the redeveloped Main Stand building site to create trellis for planting tall-growing fruit and veg. Eco-friendly garden furniture created from recycled plastic bottles and a beehive housing for over 10,000 bees have also been introduced to the site.
Over the course of the 2016-17 season, the club will engage the local community and schools to help cultivate the allotment, educating them about food and highlighting the importance of nutrition, hygiene and healthy eating.
Liverpool Ladies players Mollie Green and Danielle Gibbons were recently at the allotment to celebrate the opening and to use their green fingers assisting with planting and pruning.
Reds goalkeeper Gibbons said: “It is great that the club is involved within the local community in this way. The allotment is a fantastic initiative and me and the girls are happy to pop down and support it.”
LFC general manager of hospitality, tourism and events, Paul Cuttill, added: “We are really pleased to be able to utilise this land to grow our own fresh produce. We hope the allotment will play a valuable role in our catering operation and also the local community.
“The produce from the allotment will hopefully go a long way to help promote healthy eating and it is brilliant that it will be utilised in the new Main Stand.”