It was great to welcome two new visitors to the orchard today as Sophie and Steve joined us for the first time.

Our task was bramble-based once again as we looked to consolidate the gains made previously in reclaiming some of the overgrown space to plant new fruit trees. This time we continued to use shears and rakes to cut back any remaining growth and prevent it falling back to the ground where it could rot and provide nutrients for new bramble growth. Hopefully some of the wildflower seeds we planted previously will flourish instead!

We covered a lot of ground before the rain once again set in. Everyone showed great determination in braving the downpour before we finally retreated under the trees for some much appreciated hot coffee. Martin also gave out a few of the lovely new Manor Woods Valley calendars!