A sure sign that the lure of high-tech stocks has faded came with an offer the Margin stumbled across the other day from The Organic Centre promoting a unique Share Purchase Scheme.

Under the scheme, share certificates can be purchased to the value of £50, £100, and £500, which will give buyers "a symbolic stake in perpetuity in the centre", which provides training, information and demonstrations in organic growing, gardening and farming. Shareholders will be entitled to free entry to the centre for life.

This scheme seems like a sure thing for investors of a more nervous disposition, as the shares are not likely to go down in value. Having said that, they are not likely to rise either, unless you're willing to count the organic value. Just watch them grow.