While working with the Community Centre on the Green Babies energy project TTH were asked if we would also plant trees in the grounds. We were already looking for a site for a community orchard and this request gave us the idea of an orchard spread around different locations in the town.
At the Community Centre we have planted 20 hazel nut trees, a mixture of three different varieties. Planting was carried out with the valued help of the Horncastle Lions. We are grateful for funding from The Friends of Horncastle and District Healthcare and Relief in Need Charity who gave us a grant towards the cost.
Planting Group at the Community Centre
The trees will not only be an attractive addition to the grounds but will also help absorb CO2. In time they will provide a source of food in the form of nuts and will also benefit wildlife. The children attending the nursery in the centre will also be able to learn from this addition to their outdoor space.
The next phase of the orchard will be help residents round Gibson Green plant fruit trees on part of the Green. Grants to help with this have been given by Horncastle Town Council and LCC councillor Bill Aron. The planned dates are now Saturday 11 Feb and Sunday 19 Feb, 10am- 3pm both days with a break for lunch. As well as helping with planting the trees we will erect a fence round each, (4 poles to drive in and wire mesh to cut and then staple on for each) so as well as folk with spades we need some with protective goggles, gloves,wire cutters and hammers.
Please let Jennifer Lawrence (dandj.lawrence@btinternet.com ) know if you plan to come, what equipment you will have and which day. Then we can work out how many trees we can get in on each day, if we need to borrow any gear and how much food we will need. (Please bring your own drinks)
If anyone is interested in joining the Orchard Group please email transitiontownhorncastle@hotmail.com or tel. 01507 523221
