Thatchers Cider Community Orchard Project returns for 2023

Thatchers Cider has launched its 2023 Community Orchard Project.

In the third year of the project, the Somerset cider maker is looking to give away 500 apple trees to community groups up and down the country, encouraging planting in both urban and rural communities.

Groups can apply to be considered for a bundle of five apple trees each by visiting www.thatcherscider.co.uk/thatchers-community-orchard.

The simple application form asks for details of their community group, describing how the trees will be of benefit to them. Applications close on 3 February 2023.

In 2022, Thatchers gave away 350 apple trees, to over 50 organisations across the UK, doubling the number it was able to support in the project’s first year.

“Planting trees means so much to us as cider makers, and we want to spread our passion far and wide,” says fourth generation cider maker Martin Thatcher. “We all know that planting trees helps the environment but being out in nature is so good for well-being too. Over the last two years our project has been able to help residential groups rewild their communities and help care homes create peaceful havens for residents.

“We’re looking forward to hearing from groups again in 2023 and help spread our love of apple trees far and wide.”