On a city allotment an idea is growing that could blossom into a major green initiative.

We're not talking about a few enthusiasts devoted to growing their own cabbage and carrots for the dinner table, but a lot of people tapping into a simpler way of life and learning to enjoy the fruits of their labours, while all the time getting closer to nature.

There's good cause for excitement about the Green Back Yard proposal which would see ideas already tried out at a quarter-acre plot of paradise in the heart of Dogsthorpe by the city's dynamic Eco Arts Projects (EAP), expanded to pave the way for a major course covering the spectrum of sustainability. This would involve teachers and schoolchildren rolling up their sleeves and learning about everything from growing their own food to harvesting energy and using carpentry to create something new from recycled wood.

It could eventually become the foundation for courses at the city's long-awaited university, as well as a social experiment. It deserves a thumbs-up from the city.

Graffiti boards to discourage crime

HOPEFULLY, graffiti addicts will take advantage of the experimental boards erected by the city council in Orton Goldhay to show off their artistic skills and leave other property alone.

This is their chance to show they can behave sensibly.