As a mother to five enthusiastic young cooks (three girls and two boys - equally as enthusiastic!) I thought it would be great idea to share the cookery experience with other local children.

As I watched my own children picking blackberries and apples in late Summer/Autumn, and then help me produce jams and jellies with such enthusiasm ... The Pumpkin Patch was born!

The Pumpkin Patch is a kitchen and garden school that links the growing and cooking of our food, bringing a real understanding of where the food comes from and what we can do with it. Learning the basic skills of growing vegetables and cooking traditional wholesome food is a great start in life -one that is rarely passed on since families have become busier and the extended family are not always at hand to help.

Why the Pumpkin Patch? Because I just love them -the colour, shape, size and texture of the big friendly pumpkin. I love to plant them and watch them grow - twisting and climbing, transforming the veg patch into an amazing, enchanted and beautiful lush garden. I thought that if I love them so much, then kids must love them too, not just the big ones but the strange and weird squashes, that make the most fantastic soups! Just wait and see!!

As a qualified teacher, an enthusiastic cook, gardener and an experienced mother, I love the opportunity of being able to share these skills with some willing and keen young cooks and gardeners! Hopefully in years to come they too will find delight and relaxation, enjoyment and excitement in the kitchen and garden.