Work under way to plant 20 community orchards

It is hoped the new orchards can provide new community spaces while enhancing the environment

Work is under way to plant 20 community orchards as part of a government initiative to celebrate the King's coronation.

The Coronation Living Heritage Fund project by Wiltshire Council will see new orchards planted across the county that can be used as community spaces and education centres.

The council received a £50,000 government grant, which it has used to support different projects with tree purchases and other forms of support.

Traditional "wassailing" events are taking place to celebrate the new orchards, with the trees not only enhancing "Wiltshire's beautiful environment, but the project encapsulates the best of our communities, leaving a lasting legacy", said councillor Dominic Muns.

Wassailing is an ancient tradition that blesses apple trees in the winter in the hope of encouraging a good harvest.

New songs have been written in honour of the new orchards that will be sung at the events across Wiltshire, and it is hoped the Wassailing can offer a new aspect to community life.

"We really see these new orchards as being hubs for the community and there is no greater fitting tribute to mark the Coronation of King Charles III," added Muns, cabinet member for the environment.