A FAMILIAR face for fans of The Great British Bake Off has helped to launch Leicester’s seed library for the spring growing season.
Dr Josh Smalley - who made it all the way to the finals of the Great British Bake Off in 2023 - is a former student and now postdoctoral research associate and science communication champion for the university.
This year, the university has joined the seed library through the Universities Partnership programme.
Members of Leicester Libraries or the University of Leicester library can order free seeds so that they can grow fresh, tasty, healthy veg at home. And if you want some inspiration, later in the year Josh will be posting some online recipes using what he’s grown from the seed library.
Chemistry graduate Josh – who now works at the university - said: “I can’t wait to pick up and get growing with my seeds from Leicester seed library! This is such a great initiative and you don’t even need a garden for it, as the seeds available are suitable for planting in pots or on a window ledge. So anyone can get involved!
“As I grow along I will be posting photos of the progress, then when harvesting time comes I will share few recipes that will hopefully inspire people on how to use their produce.
“It just goes to show that gardening is for everyone – and whether you’re a student, a seasoned grower or a novice, all you need is library membership to be able to get your hands on some free seeds and get started.”
Assistant city mayor Cllr Vi Dempster, who is responsible for libraries, public health, allotments and community growing, said: “Our seed library has been running for three years now and it’s great to be able to welcome the University of Leicester on board.
“This initiative is also an important part of the Let’s Get Growing community growing programmes that take place across the city, which we know not only provide people with healthy, home-grown produce, but are also hugely valued as a great way to boost your mental wellbeing, keep active and meet other people.
“Using your library membership to get growing means you can also take advantage of other library resources, such as our wide range of books, e-books and magazines that offer tips and advice on gardening.
“We’re very grateful to The Conservation Volunteers for helping us select the seeds to provide, and to Josh and the University of Leicester for joining the scheme.”
Dr Simon Dixon, associate director for community and heritage in the library and learning services at the university, said: “Our library members come to us to feed their minds, but now they can feed their bodies too, thanks to the Seed Library.
“There’s no better diet than one that consists of home-grown, fresh, tasty, healthy veg and thanks to the city council and The Conservation Volunteers, more people will have the opportunity to grow their own.”
The offer is open to anyone living in the city, you just need to be a library member – it’s free and easy to join. Choose up to three packets of seeds, with the current spring selection including spring onions, edible flowers and dwarf French beans.
To claim your free seeds, call 0116 454 0290, visit your local library or visit the University of Leicester library to place your order. Find all the information you need at www.leicester.gov.uk/seedlibrary
To find out more about community growing in Leicester, visit www.leicester.gov.uk/allotments
ENDS
Picture shows l-r Emma Foskett from Leicester Libraries, Leicester City Council; Dr Josh Smalley from University of Leicester; Daxa Ralhan from Public Health at Leicester City Council, Professor Daniel Ladley, Dean of University of Leicester School of Business; Lee Warner, head of neighbourhood services, Leicester City Council.