Apple loving and learning in Horfield Organic Community Orchard

Since it’s creation in 1998, Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) has welcomed the local community to celebrate Apple Day.  To mark next year’s 20th anniversary, and the maturing of this pioneering urban orchard, HOCO is launching an ambitious, orchard-based practical learning programme.  The 12-month course is in tune with the growing year, and starts February 2018.  It’s being developed by Shannon Smith, the current HOCO co-ordinator, and an experienced community educator.  “Our new Orchard Learning programme will be fun, hands-on, and educational,” says Shannon.  “Immersion in our rich and complex orchard offers a unique learning experience.  By the end of the learning year participants will have gathered knowledge, skills, and confidence, to care for and enjoy fruits from trees of different varieties, ages, and characteristics.  They’ll also gain hands-on experience organising large public events, and sharing what they have learned with others.”

There are only 16 spaces available, and expressions of interest are invited by 11 December 2017.  Development of the programme is supported by HOCO funding.  The cost to participants will be very reasonable, about £50, which includes a HOCO membership subscription.  All are welcome to find out more at this year’s Apple Day on Sunday 22 October.

Apple Day is a fun and fruit-filled community celebration.  Don’t miss the much-loved apple tasting table, featuring more than two dozen different varieties to try, including rare, local, and distinctive fruits, not usually found in the shops.  Juice making is an energetic and family-friendly activity.  Fresh-pressed juice tastes much more interesting than commercial juice, and brings even more pleasure when accompanied by a slice of lovely home-made cake from the refreshments stall.  Visitors to this year’s Apple Day can enjoy the newly planted Home Orchard Plot (HOP) – a mini orchard with a 10 x 4 metre footprint.  Orchard members planned and planted the HOP project to inspire everyone to grow fruit in small spaces.

All welcome to celebrate Apple Day at Horfield Organic Community Orchard on Sunday 22 October, 2-4pm.  Free entry!

To find the orchard (nearest postcode BS7 8JP):

Walk down the lane beside 22 Kings Drive (between Bishop Road & Kellaway Avenue), turn left and it’s the first gate on the right.

OR  Take the lane beside 134 Longmead Avenue until you come to the last gate on the left

For more information: www.community-orchard.org.uk

E-mail: hocohello@gmail.com

Phone: 0117 373 1587

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