A community group set up to try and secure the future of village allotments has raised £48,000 and counting to back the campaign.

The ten-acre site, on Guisborough Road, in Great Ayton, was put up for sale by its owners in September, along with an adjacent area of grassland.

A working party was formed with a view to buying the land, which contains 178 allotments, and set a target of raising £50,000 to support a bid which has been submitted to the government's Community Ownership Fund in conjunction with Great Ayton Parish Council.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Rishi Sunak with the allotments group

With just under two months of fundraising time left, the group, with the support of the community and local businesses, has so far managed to raise £48,000.

Rishi Sunak, in his role as Richmond MP, visited the allotment site recently and pledged his support for the project.

A Facebook page set up by the working group is attracting support from national allotment groups and individuals across the country. One commented: "As an exiled Aytonian I am following this story with great interest – the sense of community spirit is amazing."

A table top craft event with work from local artists and crafters raised more than £1,000, while information stalls on the High Street have provided updates and raised awareness on plans, grant bids and fundraising activity.

A "Dance in the Barn" hosted by Fletcher’s Farm raised more than £5,000. Primary schools made scarecrows to be auctioned on the night alongside a number of donations from businesses and artists.

Other events planned include a "Community Gang Night" featuring local musicians, singers and poetry readings. A cake stall will be held at Great Ayton Village Fete on June 8.

Donations can be made online via www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/greatayton-allotments.

A spokesperson for the working group said members are excited at the prospect of reaching the required funds and securing the allotments for future generations of Great Ayton residents.