VOLUNTEERS are helping to provide free fruit for all after completing work on a new community orchard in Rudheath.

The orchard, on land off Shipbrook Road owned by Northwich Anglers Association, has been created as part of the Mersey Forest, with Rudheath and Witton volunteers helping to expand the ever-growing network of woodlands being planted across north Cheshire and Merseyside.

It will provide fruit for years to come, including Cheshire apple varieties such as Minshull Crab and Cheshire Pippin.

The Rudheath and Witton Together Conservation Group (RWT) teamed up with 1874 Northwich FC Projects Team and national charity the Conservation Volunteers to plant more than 25 fruit trees and to create new surfaced paths, willow sculptures and fencing.

Carved wooden seats depicting British wildlife designed by local artist Russell Kirk have also been installed.

Cynthia Moore, from RWT said: “Having fresh fruit on people’s doorstep that is free to pick and eat will be fantastic, and we’re also looking forward to the orchard being a focal point for community events.”

The trees include local apple varieties grafted from scions supplied by Cheshire Landscape Project, as well as plum, cherry and pear trees.

Funding for the project has come from Northwich chemical manufacturer INEOS Enterprises through their landfill communities fund scheme, The Big Tree Plant through the Mersey Forest and Weaver Vale Housing Trust.

Janet Ward, of INEOS Enterprises, said: “It’s great to support a project that is bringing so many different groups of people together – from anglers, to local residents, to the volunteers who’ve worked so hard to make the orchard happen.”