Community orchard celebrates golden milestone

A community orchard described as being the largest of its kind in Milton Keynes is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Planted in 1976 by the Milton Keynes Development Corporation, the Community Orchard at Woughton on the Green in Buckinghamshire, is now managed by The Parks Trust and volunteers from the Mid Shires Orchard Group.

Now home to 19 native varieties of apple trees, before it was planted, the land belonged to Cottage Farm which was built in the 19th century.

Amy Gerhard, events and community engagement assistant at The Parks Trust, said: "The orchard has always been for the people of Milton Keynes and this anniversary is a chance to celebrate that together."

According to The Parks Trust, when Milton Keynes was first developed part of the plan for residents was to be able to enjoy fresh fruit from their gardens and while fruit trees were planted in housing developments, the orchard was also planted.

It had said if all of the orchards in the city were joined together, it would be home to one of the largest orchards in Britain.

To celebrate the anniversary the trust is holding a handful of community events throughout the year including a traditional wassail ceremony, spring and summer picnics and apple day.

Gerhard said: "From the wassail to picnics and apple day, these events are all about bringing neighbours, families, and friends together to share in its rich history and vibrant future."

Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.