Fourth-generation cider maker, Thatchers, has opened applications for its 2023 Community Orchard project. Thatchers has increased the number of apple trees to be given away from the third year of the project, to 500, in an effort to promote tree planting in both inner city and rural communities for community groups and charities.
“Planting trees means so much to us as cider makers, and we want to spread our passion far and wide,” says fourth-generation cider maker Martin Thatcher, who planted his first apple tree aged 5.
“We all know that planting trees helps the environment and supports biodiversity, but being out in nature is so good for well-being too. Over the last two years our project has been able to help residential groups rewild their communities; provide schools with trees for their pupils to learn from; and help care homes create peaceful havens for residents.
“We’re looking forward to hearing from community groups again in 2023 and help spread our love of apple trees far and wide.”
In 2022, Thatchers doubled the number of organisations it could support in its project by giving away 350 apple trees across the UK. This year, Thatchers is looking for groups, such as schools, care homes, and communities, who would benefit from growing apple trees and would like to participate in this project.
Groups who wish to be in with a chance of receiving a bundle of 5 apple trees each can apply online at www.thatcherscider.co.uk/thatchers-community-orchard.