The Giant Pumpkin Challenge

Newport’s award winning gardener Ian Neale has laid down a challenge to the city’s new Mayor - and he needs your support to help raise money for charity.

Ian, who has won numerous awards over the years for his giant vegetables, has set a giant pumpkin challenge to support the Mayor’s charities - the St Woolos Cathedral restoration appeal and Growing Space.

Ian has agreed to start off 200 pumpkin seedlings at his nurseries in Langstone, which he will sell to the public for £4.50 each, along with some top tips for successful growing.

Schools, community groups, businesses, and residents are all welcome to join in the challenge.

The winner will be the person with the largest pumpkin when judging day arrives next October.

The Mayor of Newport, Councillor Miqdad Al Nuaimi - a keen gardener, said: “I’m delighted to take up Ian’s challenge and would urge as many people as possible to join in too.”

This is a great way to have some fun in the garden and raise money for a good cause.

To buy your seedling, call in at Ian’s nurseries - Magor Road Nurseries, Byford, Magor Road, Langstone, Newport. South Wales. NP18 2JX

Further Information: Fr. Mark Soady St Woolos Cathedral, Newport, S. Wales (07968 753978)