Allotments are emerging as a modern way to improve health and well being, as more people recognise the value of fresh produce and fresh air, a consumer watchdog has said.

Accessible for city dwellers and a hive of activity for communities, allotments are also attracting families keen to keep their children healthy and help the environment, according to Gardening Which?.

Allotments are under threat in some areas from road schemes, developers and, in one particular case, plans for the 2012 Olympic Games, the firm said.

But often plot-holders and local communities have been successful in saving areas or reaching a workable compromise, Gardening Which? added.

Local councils, with the support of the Allotment Regeneration Initiative (ARI), are also working to improve allotments - Edinburgh has already opened new sites and Sheffield plans to.

Allotments are ideal places to grow many of the vegetables, herbs and fruit available in supermarkets and even exotic crops from across the world.

Julia Boulton, editor of Gardening Which?, said: "Wherever you live, allotments are a great way to grow your own vegetables, enjoy the great outdoors, and get families involved in gardening.

"Interest in allotments is booming - not surprising when they only cost a few pounds a year so grab yourself a bargain while you can!"

Allotment tips:

To get the best out of an allotment, Gardening Which? gives the low-down on what to look out for. There should be:

- Fertile, well-worked soil is a real help - some sites are now organic.

- Convenient water, such as a handy water tank, as hose-pipes are not always permitted.

- Good security is an advantage as vandalism and theft can be a problem on some sites.

- Access for compost deliveries is helpful and some sites will organise this on behalf of members.

- Some sites have the benefits of a club hut, sheds for individual plots, and tarmac access roads.

The article Allotments are back in fashion originally appeared on 999 Today