10/07/2026
We love a good before and after shot, and this morning was a great opportunity for one! A huge thank you to Than, Ems, Janessa, Sarah and Simona who came along this morning to help give the community orchard some much-needed TLC.
We reclaimed the train track, cut down the seeding docks, sticky jacks and nettles, and rescued the fruit bushes that were swamped by grasses.
If you haven’t visited before, the orchard can be found just across from the Hop Garden, at The Crescent Allotments in High Spen, which is accessed via Bute Road South.
It’s open 365 days a year and you’re welcome to pick whatever is growing at the time - everything from gooseberries and raspberries to apples and pears.
All we ask is that you respect the space and those who care for it and only take what you need, leaving plenty for others (which includes the local wildlife!)
If you’d like to improve your summer fruit tree pruning skills, we have a half-day workshop coming up on Saturday 15 August based at the community orchard.
Places are limited to ensure everyone gets what they need, so if you’re interested, email Than via [email protected] for more information.
