A NURSERY run by a mental health charity has branched out into tasty treats ahead of the Christmas season.

The team at the Chestnut Nursery garden centre, in Kingland Road, Poole, has cut the ribbon to open a new department dedicated to artisan foody gifts – and supporting local suppliers.

Run by mental health charity Plants and Minds, the centre branched out ahead of the festive period, catering for customers seeking stocking fillers “promising a taste sensation”.

Bosses at the garden centre said up to 75% of produce at Chestnut’s new foodies’ paradise is sourced from suppliers in Dorset and the south west.

“Unlike many garden centres, Chestnut does not have a café or offer any catering facilities, and all food items are sold for consumption off-site,” a spokesperson said.

“The nursery supports adults with life-impacting mental health conditions, known as team members, enhancing their wellbeing via a year-round programme of horticultural therapy.”

Andy Verreck, manager at Chestnut Nursery, said: “While plants and gardening remain at the heart of everything we do at Chestnut, we know our customers can’t resist edible treats, especially during the festive season, when so many people visit the nursery to buy our premium, UK-grown Nordmann Fir Christmas trees, which are now in stock.

“Not only will our new artisan food gift area support local suppliers of edible produce, but it will ensure Chestnut continues to thrive during the quieter season in the gardening calendar, when income is essential to maintain our horticultural therapy programme.”

The nursery is also running its first Black Friday event between November 28 and December 1, offering 10% off most products.

Chestnut Nursery is open between 9am and 4pm Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 4pm on Sunday, with free customer parking. Visit www.chestnutnursery.org.uk.