Scheme takes root

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After extensive negotiations, Boston Spa, Wetherby and Villages Green Group have planted the first fruit trees at Deepdale Park in Boston Spa.

Spokesman for the group which has spearheaded the scheme, Penny Stables said: “This has taken the Community Green Group a whole year of planning, presenting the idea, getting approval and then getting the site checked for suitability to plant.

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“So it was so exciting to actually get the trees in the ground.

“We would like to say a big thank you to Wetherby Lions, Boston Spa Parish Council and the Wetherby Ward Councillors who together put in the funding to make this possible.”

The scheme aims to benefit the community through “greening” the areas in which people live and work, while improving the net carbon rating of the region and supporting the environment for birds and wildlife.

Penny added of the planting: “The wind and rain didn’t deter the hardy volunteers from digging through mud, rubble and roots, mixing in homemade compost with the soil and planting some lovely trees, that will hopefully provide fruit through the summers to come for the local people.

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“These included Victoria Plum, Discovery apples and Beurre Hardy pears, as well as Mulberry Tree, that will fruit at different times through the year.”

This week will see the planting of an avenue of mixed berry trees along West Lane.

These trees will provide berries at different times of the year and are hoped to help attract and feed birds in the area.

Ward Councillors Alan Lamb, Linda Richards and Norma Harrington said: “We were delighted to support this scheme, which is such a positive step towards improving our community spaces and improving our shared environment, and really enjoyed our time on the site supporting the planting.

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“ We hope this orchard will continue to be enjoyed long into the future by local residents.”

Penny added her thanks to the army of volunteers who have helped with the scheme.

“We would also like to thank all of the local residents who have volunteered to help look after these trees, by watering them through the next three summers, whilst they become established,” added Penny.

Anyone wanting to get involved or who could offer to help should contact: [email protected].

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