Orchard project extended with cash grant

The project made its debut in 2022

A project to create more community orchards in Leicestershire is to continue for another year after receiving a new government grant.

The county council run-scheme offers schools and community groups the chance to apply for free orchard packs comprised of 10 small apple and pear trees plus planting equipment.

Since its launch in 2022, 25 schools and 16 parishes have successfully applied for the packs.

Leicestershire County Council has now received £28,290 from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) to continue the project in 2024.

The authority said the scheme not only helped to provide fresh and healthy food produce but also creates new havens for wildlife.

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