Dunsden Community Orchard

Sometime champion ploughman Phil Dyer made light work of digging out 50 holes for tree planting at our first working party this weekend. Using a 24" tractor-powered augur he saved hours of toil, cutting through the heavy soil in no time. A group of enthusiastic volunteers backed him up by barrowing in manure and fixing gate posts.

We need even more helpers next weekend (15 March from 10am). 45 trees are arriving and they must be carefully planted. We hope as many people as possible will join us: no experience required, just turn up for an hour or so, anytime on the day.

Big progress is expected at our next meeting on Monday February 4th at 8pm in the village hall. Topics so far suggested include:

• schedule for development of the orchard
• funding and grant applications
• responsibilities
• planting plan
• access
• equipment storage
  

But please come along with your own suggestions. Make a note of the date: 4/2/08!

You may also be interested in a half-day practical fruit tree pruning course aimed at those with trees at home.

It is at Cross Lanes Farm in Mapledurham on Saturday January 26, Tuesday Feb 5 and Saturday Feb 9. Bookings on 0118 972 3167.