Our orchard reclamation began in April and we have slowly axed, chainsawed, raked, dug, dragged and burnt our way until we now have around three sessions ahead of us until the orchard is cleared.


With us this weekend were Joy and her boys who made a real difference clearing more cherry suckers and then taking on the difficult task of removing a cherry tree.

Pictured right is the moment that the pushing and pulling finally paid off and the cherry went over. Trev is a lovely mover and extemporises while the rest of us push or put their weight behind ropes.

It is always satisfying to tidy up and we love to end sessions with a calming and reflective bonfire and we see team Hill doing just that.

Orchard reclamation will continue then on to:

• ground clearance to remove roots and suckers
• raising the crowns of the lime trees to allow more light in
• construction of raised beds and filling with hearty topspoil
• construction of compost bins
• removal of privet hedge and replacement with new hedge
• sowing of hay meadow 
• planting of crocus bulbs

Our next working party is on Sunday 18 September 2011. All help welcome. Join us.