A range of events has been planned by South Gloucestershire Council throughout October to promote and celebrate the district’s beautiful orchards.
As the season of mellow fruitfulness arrives and the fruit hangs heavy on the trees, residents are invited to get out and about amongst South Gloucestershire’s orchards.
Councillor Brian Allinson, executive member for planning, transportation and strategic environment, said: “South Gloucestershire is blessed with many orchards and a rich tradition of fruit growing and cider making. Local residents have a wonderful opportunity to explore and become involved with this valuable part of our natural heritage thanks to the wide range of activities supported by the Council.”
Orchards are the bee’s knees for local wildlife, providing food and shelter for a multitude of insects, birds and mammals. These key habitats also provide entertainment for wildlife of a human kind, so come and experience the wonders of pressing fruit into juice, find out how to grow your own fruit and learn all about these beautiful places that form such an important part of our natural and cultural heritage.
In addition to the fantastic events on offer, the Council is supporting many other orchard-related activities. An updated advice booklet for apple orchards will be made available at the events and will be available to download from the council website. Visit www.southglos.gov.uk/orchards.
The Council is also looking for volunteers to help take part in a national survey to assess the condition of local orchards. Working closely with the charity, People’s Trust for Endangered Species, the Council is co-ordinating the survey in South Gloucestershire.
John Morris, environmental projects officer, said “We’re asking for volunteers, landowners, tree wardens and anyone else with an interest in wildlife to come forward and help carry out a simple survey of orchards”. For more information please contact John Morris on 01454 863581, text ‘orchards’ to 07950080111 or email naturalenvironment@southglos.gov.uk.
Source: South Gloucestershire Council
