His aim is to become as self-sufficient as possible and he has plans to expand and, hopefully, create his own business around the project.

Mr Wilson, of Duke Street, Kettering, said: "I have recently acquired an allotment, however, I have encountered a few teething problems.

"Anyone setting out to be self-sufficient should beware of the following.

"Don't sow before the recommended sowing dates, having planted broad beans too early I now have sorry looking plants that have grown three inches, as opposed to the dark green beans growing in my border now.

"The second point is don't sow more than you need. My daughter Anna and I planted radishes by the bucket load in March and now have more radishes than I know what to do with."

Part of his self-sufficiency project is to get his children involved.

He said: "Radishes are a really easy to grow and only take about five weeks to cropping, just long enough to keep the kids interested in them."

Mr Wilson also has some advice on controlling pests. He said: "Having crops also means we are attracting some unwanted pests.

"We want to deal with all insects the organic way but it is tempting to get the insecticide out, however, we have resisted so far though.

"Space is also at a premium in my back yard and as the allotment won't be ready for growing this year, any gap in the garden is currently being used.

"I am even using the sandpit, much the Anna's annoyance."