Apples, pears and plums have been grown in our area since medieval monks planted the first orchards in the 12th<\/sup> century. In the 18th<\/sup>, 19th<\/sup> and 20th<\/sup> centuries fruit from extensive local orchards was sold as far afield as London. Only a few fragments of these orchards remain, but they are important reminders of our fruit growing heritage, living testaments to pioneering orchardeers like Patrick Matthew, and havens for enigmatic local varieties.<\/p>\n Working with orchard keepers and volunteers we have brought some of these historic orchards back to life; caring for old trees, whilst propagating new stock to replace them. We have also establish a new community orchard.<\/p>\n People got involved by joining our Orchard Work Parties, signing up to our Orchard Skills Training courses, or coming along to our annual Fruit Festival.<\/p>\n