Fruit-picking project hailed a huge success

A summer project which allowed hundreds of people to pick their own free fruit at a community orchard has been hailed a huge success.

The Pick, Press and Play event saw First Choice Homes Oldham and Northern Lily work together to host a series of summer sessions at the community group’s 160-tree heritage orchard in Failsworth. 

Apples, pears, blackberries and plums worth nearly £1,000 were picked, washed, weighed and processed by young people and their families throughout August before being taken home in cases. 

There was also the opportunity to make free fresh apple juice using Northern Lily's traditional fruit press at its Grassroots site in Marlborough Drive. 

A total of 208kg of apples, pears, plums and blackberries were harvested and shared with the 208 people who took part in the four sessions. 

FCHO's head of tenancy and neighbourhoods, Gemma Dolby, said the housing association had given £1,400 to enable the events. 

“FCHO supported this excellent project because we want to work in partnership with great organisations like Northern Lily to strengthen communities, reduce social isolation, improve access to green spaces and promote sustainability," she explained. 

“Crucially these sessions have also supported the health and wellbeing of our customers aged from zero to 78-years-old – many of whom live in our homes near the orchard and who now know this wonderful amenity and its produce is on their doorstep.” 

Founder and director of Northern Lily, Victoria Holden said: "The Pick, Press and Play programme has brought people of all ages together to enjoy the community orchard, learn where fresh food comes from, and take-home free fruit to help meet their five a day. 

“Thanks to the support from First Choice Homes Oldham's Community Grants Programme, we've been able to create a welcoming space where local people can connect, enjoy nature and access healthy, nutritious food.” 

Danielle Jones brought her son, Seb to the programme and added: "This is a brilliant day out for me and Seb - we've even brought some of our friends along with us. We wanted to learn a little bit more about what's going on near our home. 

Seb said: "I love seeing the animals and growing plants. My favourite part was getting to pick the fruit myself."