A community farm has secured its future by smashing its fundraising target.
Sutton Community Farm, based in Wallington, grows a variety of organic vegetables and fruit and distributes them in a delivery scheme. Six weeks ago the farm launched a campaign to raise £15,000 in order to make the necessary investments to become sustainable.
The crowdfunding scheme attracted more than 200 backers who donated between £5 and £1,500 to raise a £17,172. The money will be spent on marketing the farm so it can complete with other national vegetable box delivery schemes.
Laura Jean Sargent, manager of the farm's VegBag scheme, said: "We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity and support of our community and funders both near and far. It’s a true testament to the growing attitude towards the overall importance of truly local food and one that we can all be proud of."
The farm's campaign to promote locally grown, seasonal produce has been backed by top chefs and celebrities including Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall and Lorraine Pascale. Ms Pascale said: "I’m a huge advocate of eating sustainably grown produce and always incorporate fresh and organic vegetables into my recipes.
"Sutton Community Farm is fantastic organisation, providing freshly grown vegetable produce to their local community. I urge everyone in and around Sutton to support their local farm and eat some lovely local veg."
To find out more about Sutton Community Farm and join the VegBag scheme, http://www.suttoncommunityfarm.org.uk.
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