The Groundwork Trust Finish Their Work on the Path in March 2010

Footpaths constructed by the Groundwork Trust were finished in March 2010 and are now leading from the main cemetery path to the paved seating area, as well as across the whole length of the site with a turning circle at the end. They are enabling disabled visitors to access the orchard.

Family activities at the Jesmond Festival in March 2010

Gil rode her trusty trike in the Jesmond Community Festival Parade on Sat 13 March 2010 bedecked with apple related paraphernalia. At the Grand Festival Fair visitors and supporters alike gathered around the displays of the Jesmond Community Orchard stall to see the orchards progress and discuss future plans.

A family activity afternoon was held on Sun 14 March 2010 at the orchard grounds including the construction of bird and bat boxes, drawing and making apple collages, planting wild flowers, and dressing scarecrows.

Seeding Grass and Wildflowers in April 2010

Just after Easter 2010 a working party dug, broke soil, raked and finally seeding grass across the orchard to turn it into a pleasant area for future picnics and events.

Water Aid from the Community Foundation and Northumbrian Water in April 2010

Northumbrian Water have given a helping hand to Jesmond Community Orchard through their Community Foundation Green Scheme Fund, by awarding a grant of more than £500 towards land improvement ready for planting a range of new trees.
Jane Morland, Corporate Responsibility Team Leader at Northumbrian Water visited the group. She said:

"The Northumbrian Water Green Fund was set up with the Community Foundation back in 1991 to support projects that enhance the environment and make a long-term difference to the communities we serve.
"Our support for community projects goes beyond financial assistance and we look forward to working with the Orchard in the coming months. Northumbrian Water employees will be preparing the ground for grass-seeding through our employee volunteering scheme, and we will be donating water butts to save water for dry spells."

Working Party in May 2010

On Sun 16 May a small group prepared the areas around the seating area.
Sleepers were brought on to the site for later creating raised beds. A weed suppressing membrane was applied to later be covered with wood chippings and planted through. Finally, the triangle between the path, the seating area and the almond tree was dug over and planted up with lavender and other herbs so it resembled a 'parterre'.

Celebrating our 1-year Anniversary in June 2010

Jesmond Community Orchard was celebrating its first year of achievements with an AGM and social event on 22 June 2010 at the British Legion Club in Jesmond. In that time the orchard had turned from a fantasy into a reality, with dozens of local families and individuals joining in planting and other activities.

With A Little Help From Northumbria Water Volunteers

in July 2010

A group of volunteers from Northumbria Water got stuck in at the orchard and further transformed the ground clearing more of the area, building raised beds and planting around the site. Their efforts were well appreciated - Thank you!

Sunny Working Picnic & Get Together in Aug 2010

Helped by continual sunshine instead of the forecasted torrential rain, about 12 people came together at the orchard - some just to look around and others brought picnics and blankets. People shared pizza, cake, plums, apples and dates. Some visitors enthusiastically sowed seeds we had provided, hoed the raspberry bed while the grape and red currant bushes were weeded. A truely enjoyable and very peaceful afternoon at the orchard!