An expert has told those looking to shed some extra pounds that just half an hour of gardening can burn as many calories as an aerobic exercise session, as well as helping to reduce a number of family health risks.

Donna McDaid, national secretary for the National Society of Allotment and Leisure Gardeners (NSALG), said that British households are increasingly using allotments to reduce their carbon footprint and air miles.

"You can also choose what you want to grow, how you wish to grow it and have a real sense of achievement knowing that you have grown something from seed and chemical free if you want to," she added.

The expert went on to say that just 30 minutes of gardening can burn the same number of calories as an aerobic workout, which could help people reduce their risk of developing family health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease.

A recent survey by the NSALG found that the 745kg of produce allotment holders grow each year would be worth around £1,564 per plot were it to be sold. With the average annual cost of running a 300-yard plot just £202, self-sufficient households could potentially see a return of £1,362 profit.