Sadly we have had a major setback in the community orchard project. Unfortunately, in the light of legal advice, Mary Harris has found it necessary to withdraw her offer of the field near the Wye as the site for the orchard. I know Mary has come to this decision very reluctantly, and I salute her generosity of spirit in making the original offer.
This does not necessarily mean the end of the project. We have established that there is sufficient interest locally to launch a community orchard. If we can find a suitable piece of land we are ready to restart the project. I repeat the earlier plea for suggestions for a site, however improbable they may seem. Please get in touch via info@parishgrasslandsproject.org.uk
We have been encouraged by the number of people who have already come forward to express an interest in helping with various roles involved. Now it would be useful to identify someone prepared to lead the project. Please get in touch if you feel able to do so. Meantime we are planning to organise a visit to established orchards later in the year. More news when we have it.