KEEN gardeners have formed a working party to look into the management of allotments in the borough.

The group will look at issues including vandalism and security.

The group was formed after more than 250 committed allotment holders packed into a public meeting at the Oasis Leisure Centre to discuss the provision of plots.

The group will help Swindon Council review its allotment sites.

Only 40 per cent of several hundred plots across the borough are currently in use.

Coun Fionula Foley (Old Town and Lawn) reassured allotment holders that there was no risk to their plots.

She said: "This review is necessary as part of statutory Government legislation.

"Until now, there has not been a group to discuss allotments."