VOLUNTEERS are being sought to help create a new community orchard in Droitwich.
The land, in St Peter’s Fields, was used as a forest garden by local schools but that project has now come to an end.
The area has now been earmarked by Wychavon District Council’s parks team.
They want to revive the site by planting a range of apple trees, pear trees, plum trees, quince trees and medlar trees — a small, brown fruit similar to an apple — with as many Worcestershire varieties included as possible.
Those who come forward to volunteer will help establish the orchard and then maintain it.
Interested parties do not need to have any experience or knowledge of maintaining a small orchard, but the team would also be interested in hearing from people who do.
If enough people come forward then it is hoped planting for the orchard will start this winter.
It is not the first time Wychavon has set up a community orchard.
In 2010 the parks team created one in Abbey Park in Pershore which is still going strong today and is supported by six volunteers.
Lynn Stevens, parks officer at the district council, said: “This is a great way to transform this part of St Peter’s Field and those who volunteer will not only have the opportunity to learn new things but will also benefit from harvesting and using the crop.
“I hope as many people as possible will support this project by getting involved.”
Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Emily Jeavons before the end of September by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01386 565457.
