A NEGLECTED orchard is set to return to Victorian splendour this spring.
Blossoming trees will once again be seen at the Bodelwyddan Castle orchard next year thanks to the British Trust of Conservation Volunteers engagement gateway scheme RESTART.
A spokesman for the trust said the efforts would combat invasive species and preserve the horticultural heritage of the are.
He said: “The orchard has not been used for some time and had become overgrown with invasive non-native species taking root. Over the last two months volunteers have been clearing the area, preserving native oak and elm, creating new pathways and preparing the land to receive the fruit trees.”
Next week participants will begin to plant more than ten varieties of rare and heritage fruit trees including the Denbigh Plum, Bardsey Island Apple (Afal Enlli), Snowdon Queen Pear and the Abergwyngregyn damson.
Dafydd Jones, supervisor for the RESTART project, which gives unemployed people volunteer experience, said: “The clearance revealed some interesting historical features hidden beneath the overgrowth, for example the original Victorian path, complete with limestone edging, was uncovered and has now undergone restoration to enhance the recreation of the historic space.”
Mr Jones added participants in the RESTART scheme were learning a variety of practical conservation and horticulture skills, and were contributing to the development of green spaces which benefit of local communities.
Adrian Hibbert, Countryside Warden with Denbighshire County Council, said: “As growing your own garden produce is becoming more popular throughout the county, planting heritage variety trees provides a link to the past and helps preserve traditional varieties of Welsh fruits for future generations.”
For more information about RESTART contact Hywel Dodd on 07764655717.