Thirty fruit trees have been planted in East Cowes, creating the Queen Elizabeth II Community Orchard, which was officially opened on Wednesday.
In a joint effort between East Cowes Town Council and Red Funnel, residents will be able to enjoy apples, pears and cherries from the trees — in about five years’ time.
Reardon: As the town continues to thrive, so we hope, will our relationship with Red Funnel
Shovelling the last few spades of earth around the locally-made sign, Mayor of East Cowes, Tracy Reardon, said she hopes the orchard will thrive and it can be developed as a source of fresh fruit for the community.
She said,
“We are pleased, as always, to work with Red Funnel to deliver projects that will benefit our town.
“As the town continues to thrive, so we hope, will our relationship with Red Funnel.”
A safe and relaxing space for the community
It is hoped the orchard will create a safe and relaxing space for the community and is part of the ferry company’s ongoing commitment to the Island, which has seen 160 trees planted across the Island to celebrate its 160th birthday.
Lee Hudson, Red Funnel’s commercial director, also helped with the finishing touches and said they were very excited to open the orchard for everyone to enjoy.
He said,
“We are extremely proud to partner with the community to gift such an important aspect of what makes the Island so unique — its scenic spaces and biodiversity.”
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
