Thursday, 16 September 2021 13:54

People flocked to a special open day in Mossley to celebrate a community garden.

More than 60 people attended the unveiling of Mossley Community Orchard’s new sign, made by local artist Colin Rowe and funded by Tameside Rotary.

Residents enjoyed apple-inspired food, including apple chutney tartlets, Waldorf salad, Dorset apple cake and apple and ginger muffins, washed down with freshly pressed local apple juice or cider.

Visitors also enjoyed hearing about the history of the orchard, based on Stockport Road, the different varieties of apple grown in the orchard and chatted to cider experts who were available for advice and tips.

Mossley Community Orchard was originally planted in 2012 with the help of various organisations, including Operation Farm, Abundance Tameside, The Diggin Tameside Initiative, 1st Mossley Scouts, Mossley Litter Bugs and local volunteers.

RHS Young Ambassador and Operation Farm volunteer, Green Fingered George revealed the sign and said: “This orchard has such a strong sense of community and hopefully it will inspire people to get involved.

“For young people it demonstrates a connection to nature and a sustainable way of producing food.

“It’s not just a place for growing food, but a place for people to come together, reflect and enjoy it, right on your doorstep and meet the community, meet the people involved, share your knowledge, share your experience.”

George thanked fruit tree and cider expert Rob Muir and his wife Di, for organising the event, before declaring the orchard officially open.

Mossley Community Orchard is supported by Operation Farm and Abundance Tameside.

There will be small low-key, Covid-safe events planned throughout the autumn, including apple picking and pressing at the orchard.

If you would like to know more about the orchard check out Facebook/OperationFarm.