Dobbies’ Swindon store is celebrating National Allotment Week with free Grow How gardening workshops.

Dobbies is inviting gardening enthusiasts to its Swindon store for a series of workshops throughout August, focussed on allotment gardening.

The workshops are designed to help both seasoned allotment pros and newbies achieve blooming plots.

These hands-on training sessions will be held on the first Saturday of the month, then every Wednesday in August at 10.30am and 3.30pm.

Dobbies’ workshops will equip people with knowledge on late-summer crop selection for a healthy harvest, pruning techniques for summer fruits to maximise yield, and effective watering techniques.

This will also prepare the allotment holders for any upcoming holidays, preventing potential adverse effects of their absence on the plots.

As an additional benefit during August, the guests at the Dobbies’ Swindon store have an opportunity to donate to the Stroke Association to acknowledge National Allotment Week, which is held from August 12 to 18.

Dobbies has been a supporter of the Stroke Association for several years.

Gardening is known to exert a positive influence on both the physical and emotional recovery of stroke survivors, and the charity supports various groups with allotments around the UK.

Dobbies’ plant buyer, Nigel Lawton, said: "Growing your own produce is something that we’re really passionate about at Dobbies.

"It is also growing in popularity, as many gardeners recognise the benefits of growing fresh produce in both the taste and the positive impact it can have on physical and mental health.

"A thriving allotment isn't just about delicious homegrown produce – it's about getting your hands dirty, enjoying the outdoors and feeling a sense of accomplishment.

"We're thrilled to be working alongside our friends at the Stroke Association to encourage gardeners of all abilities to learn valuable skills and discover how allotments can benefit wellbeing."

Saul Heselden, head of corporate partnerships at the Stroke Association, said: "Recovering from a stroke can bring lots of challenges, but finding joy in the simple pleasures of nature can make a real difference.

"We want to reach all those in need, but we can only do this with the generosity of our supporters like Dobbies.

"We’re incredibly grateful they have chosen to fundraise through the Grow How workshops at the Swindon store to raise vital funds for people affected by stroke."

Dobbies is also a sponsor of the Stroke Association’s Strength in Bloom virtual garden, offering a chance to commemorate affected individuals.