On Thursday, 23rd January, children from three local primary schools joined forces with Gift to Nature and the Isle of Wight Festival organisers to plant a community orchard at Pan Country Park in Newport.
The initiative, funded by the festival organisers Solo, saw pupils aged 5 to 11 planting a variety of apple trees. The orchard, named the ‘Festival Orchard,’ is located close to Lavender Way and aims to be a long-lasting benefit for the community.
A commitment to the environment
The project reflects the Isle of Wight Festival’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.
Festival Director Caroline Giddings highlighted the importance of sustainability in her comments. She said,
“It’s been great to work with Natural Enterprise to plant a host of new trees at Pan Country Park, funded by our Isle of Wight Festival audience through donations on site.
“We’re committed to reducing the festival’s environmental impact during the event in June but also through year-round initiatives, so this was the perfect opportunity to build something long-lasting for the community to enjoy.”
Gift to Nature rangers, part of Natural Enterprise, guided the young participants during the planting process.
Local variety and community benefits
The orchard features seven apple varieties, including Howgate Wonder, a variety with local roots on the Isle of Wight. The trees will offer more than just fruit. In spring, their blossoms will attract pollinators, helping to support local wildlife. Later in the year, the ripe apples will be available for the community to pick and enjoy.
Brian Friend, Chairman of Natural Enterprise, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. He said,
“We are pleased to have worked with the Isle of Wight Festival to develop a new orchard that will benefit both the wildlife and the people who visit.”
A lasting legacy
The Festival Orchard is set to become a valuable addition to Pan Country Park, offering a peaceful space for nature lovers and families to explore. The collaboration between local schools, the Isle of Wight Festival and Gift to Nature showcases the power of community efforts in creating sustainable and meaningful initiatives.
With its roots now firmly planted, the Festival Orchard will flourish as a reminder of the shared commitment to protecting and enhancing the local environment.
See the Gift to Nature website for more information about Pan Country Park.
