A Machynlleth community garden will mark its 10th anniversary in February and is planning a new community orchard to help mark the special occasion.

Gerddi Bro Ddyfi Gardens is already fundraising for the community orchard and edible wildlife hedge which the group are planning to plant in the garden in the grounds of Y Plas in March next year.

A range of local people and organisations have already contributed to the fundraising efforts which mean the anniversary plans are taking shape.

That will see a special day of celebrations at the garden on Saturday, 23 February.

Angela Paxton, the senior volunteer co-ordinator for Gerddi Bro Ddyfi Gardens, said the plans were already taking shape to celebrate the garden’s 10th anniversary.

She said: “Volunteers from the community gardens have chosen trees for the orchard, which will be planted around the edge of the wildflower meadow, in the mini orchard, and the apothecary garden.

“There will be apple, damson, pear, plum, mulberry, fig and walnut trees.

“GBDG has also been granted a new wild edible hedge from the Woodland Trust.

“The new orchard and plantings around the community gardens will provide fruit and nuts for visitors and volunteers, and create opportunities for community events such as Apple Day and wassailing.

“In the mini orchard there will be trained espalier fruit to be managed by wheelchair users who volunteer in the gardens.

“The trees and edible hedge will also help to support wildlife such as birds and insects by providing habitat, nectar, nuts and berries.”

GBDG had been aiming to raise £300 and have been helped by donations from a range of organisations and residents in the town with Angela saying the group were grateful for the support they had received.

She said: “We are so grateful to all those who have donated to the new community orchard, which will improve the gardens for the benefit of all.

“Thank you to everyone who has given donations and trees and supported this exciting community project.

“In March, GBDG will be hosting some tree and hedge-planting days, giving local people a chance to plant a tree and be part of the community event.”

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