A special tree has been planted in a historic orchard to celebrate three significant anniversaries.
Cllr Robert Raphael, Chairman of Wychavon, visited Naunton Court Orchard in Naunton Beauchamp to plant the Blenheim Red apple tree with the support of ward councillor Linda Robinson.
The planting marked 25 years of Vale Landscape Heritage Trust, which owns the site, as well as 20 years of their partnership with Severn Waste Services and 50 years of Wychavon.
The historic orchard was bought by the Trust nine years ago and stands on a ridge and furrow field that has existed for at least 600 years. It would have originally provided food for the owners and residents of nearby Naunton Court.
The Blenheim Red was the last variety needed to complete the orchard’s collection of Worcestershire apple trees. It was originally discovered at Welland near Malvern. All 32 varieties of Worcestershire apple tree are now planted in the orchard, with others including the Martin Nonpareil, which has its origins in the village of Martin Hussingtree. It is the only known complete collection of Worcestershire apple trees in the country.
Since the Trust took on the site, about 120 new trees have been planted over the years. Through careful management of the site, it is now becoming a thriving biodiversity habitat.
Dead trees are left in place and are now home to several rare insects which depend on deadwood including the rare Noble Chafer beetle and nationally scarce red-belted clearwing moth.
Some of the older trees boast plenty of mistletoe, which as well as traditionally being used to kiss under at Christmas, is also home to several rare bugs and other insects.
Cllr Raphael said: “Nationally we have lost 85% of our orchards since the Second World War, so work like this is vital to preserve our heritage and support our wildlife so it can grow and thrive once again.
“Congratulations to everyone involved with Vale Landscape Heritage Trust on 25 years of success and all the best for the future.”
Gary Farmer, Manager of the Vale Landscape Heritage Trust, said: “This is a very fitting way to celebrate the Trust’s partnership with Severn Waste Services and Wychavon’s 50th Anniversary. Between us, we are leaving a living legacy which will benefit people and wildlife now and for generations to come.”
The visit was part of Cllr Raphael’s tour of the district to celebrate Wychavon’s 50th anniversary. The aim is to visit every parish in Wychavon by April. Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/fifty to find out more.
