A community allotment is hoping the plastic bag charge might be the secret to a vital cash boost.

Tesco’s Bags of Help initiative is giving out grants of £5,000, £2,000 and £1,000 to community projects from money raised by the 5p bag levy implemented last year.

Cat Hill Allotments in East Barnet has been nominated for the shortlist, which can now be voted on by visiting Tesco stores.

The allotment provides more than 100 allotment plots in for the use of the local community and is looking to use the money to increase access for elderly and disabled users.

Using the money, the allotment committee would build raised beds and flat paths to increase accessibility, while providing a large polytunnel to enable growing all year round.

Committee chair George Kourris said: “We know from personal experience gardening is good for body and soul.

“Working on an allotment provides healthy exercise, lovely fresh produce and friendship in a supportive community for all.

“We are thrilled at being shortlisted for this grant and very excited at the prospect of being able to provide something to benefit new and existing members of our community.

“Please vote for us and help us achieve this dream.”

Voting is open in Tesco stores through March and April with voters deciding by using a token given to them at the check-out in store each time they shop.

Tesco’s Bags of Help project has delivered over £27 million to more than 3,500 projects in the UK.