A farmer is hoping to bring about a revolution in Alconbury and neighbouring Alconbury Weston with the launch of a new community food initiative.

Anthony Davison, an Alconbury resident, has launched the Alconbury Community Food Scheme, which will see local school children at Alconbury Primary School, allotment growers and businesses working together to help the village become as self-sufficient as possible.

The scheme, which is already under way, aims to ensure that all food grown in the village is retained by the village, with all surplus crops being sold through the local shop, at prices which Mr Davison hopes will be cheaper than supermarkets.

Mr Davison said: “The school, local people and farmers will be encouraged to grow, and trade, food so that everyone is reconnected with where their food comes from, cooks seasonal produce, wastes less, and saves money.

“The school and local people are already growing a small amount of fruit and veg, and there is a forgotten community orchard, but the vast majority shop at supermarkets ten miles away and are disconnected with where their food comes from, and lack the knowledge, and will, to cook with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Hannah Mulcrone, deputy head teacher at Alconbury Primary School, said:

“We are passionate about being an active part of our local community and working with the community to grow vegetables is part of this.

“This scheme is important because it teaches children and adults so much about food production, economics and sustainability. It also teaches the importance of working in a team and utilising the skills of many different people.”

As part of the food scheme, Alconbury Primary School is also running a competition to design the front of the ‘invitation’ that will be sent out to every household to get involved in the scheme.

For more information about the food scheme contact Anthony at ant@bigbarn.co.uk