He says there is increasing demand for plots of land to allow people to relax outdoors, and grow their own fruit, flowers and vegetables.

In February, Mr Baldry launched a parliamentary bill to guarantee that, where allotments are lost to make way for housing and other developments, the developer will be obliged to consider local needs and provide alternative allotment land where necessary.

Mr Baldry, who tends an allotment near Banbury Railway Station, said: "There's been a considerable growth all over the country in people applying for allotments, for all sorts of reasons.

"In my case, it's a very good way of getting rid of stress and relaxing. There's something inherently reassuring in growing plants, vegetables and flowers according to the rhythm of the seasons.

"For many people, new housing developments have left them with smaller gardens than in years gone by. Allotments give people opportunities they may not have room for at home."

He added: "The difficulty is, there's a lot of legislation protecting allotments, but not a lot that encourages local authorities to create more. It's quite difficult for authorities to purchase land within their means."

He said the new bill, which is backed by the All Party Horticultural Group, is also gaining considerable support from people around the country.

"It's clearly struck something of a nerve. I think it reflects the fact that more and more people would get stuck in if they got the opportunity. It's great exercise and it's therapeutic in all sorts of ways," said Mr Baldry.

He grows soft fruit including raspberries, and flowers such as gladioli and dahlias to brighten up his home.