Work has started on the first of London's 'pocket parks', which have received £2m of funding to transform neglected urban spaces into mini oases.

Twenty-seven 'nooks and crannies' were selected for the first round of funding in 17 boroughs across the city.

Benefits of the parks include improving air quality, reducing flood risk, providing shade and offering a haven for wildlife.

A £30,000 edible park on dead space behind a bus stop in Stockwell will include vegetables, herbs, fruit and hops to sell to the Brixton Beer Co-operative, and apple trees bred specifically for London's climate.

The space will host social gatherings and members of the local community are welcomed to take part in gardening at the park.

In Shepherds Bush, £40,000 will help transform a neglected depression between two schools into a mini amphitheatre for shows, picnics and a place to relax.

The second round of applications for the mini parks will open in May, with a total 100 'pocket parks' to be complete by March 2015.

Mayor Boris Johnson said: "London is already an incredible place to live, but by making the most of our small forgotten outdoor spaces and providing trees, greenery an meeting places the fantastic quality of life here can still be improved upon."