Whether you’re eight or 80, a community orchard project in Gloucestershire is blossoming in popularity. The Horsley Orchard Project, near Stroud, started sharing surplus fruit in the community and planting new fruit trees in 2004. Today, “HOP” as it is fondly known, is thriving, with 3 orchard sites – growing apples, pears and plums. At “apple days” families gather to chop, crush and bottle apple juice.”Work meets” care for the trees and social events mark the seasons.

Thanks to a grant from the Midcounties Co-operative Community Fund, HOP has invested in an electric “scratter” — an apple pulper – and a 40-litre low energy water press.

See Glos Orchard Group at: http://www.gloucestershireorchardgroup.org.uk/