Byes to be more fruity with new trees

Griselda Shipp volunteer of The Friends Of The Byes at the wildlife hedge planting event. Ref shs 0505-02-15TI. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

Volunteers spent Saturday placing rotted wood chips down as mulch around the base of the fruit trees to help keep weeds at bay and retain moisture.

Helpers also replaced trees by the Water Lane entrance after they were damaged last year.

The group says the trees will bring new wildlife to the area.

Volunteer coordinator Kati Fitzhenry said: “We volunteer for the enjoyment of being closer to nature and to encourage as many locals and visitors to Sidmouth to enjoy this peaceful space

Monica Matthews puts her back into her work. Ref shs 0508-02-15TI. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

“It is amazing how a few volunteers can make such a difference to this area with slow, but steady enhancements.”

The orchard was planted by volunteers in early 2012. The group hopes in 2015 the trees will start to produce a small amount of fruit that residents will be able to pick. Volunteers meet every Saturday morning in the community orchard at 10am for a couple of hours’ light improvements to the Byes.

Brenda Levings at the wildlife hedge planting event. Ref shs 0513-02-15TI. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

The Friends Of The Byes latest volunteer Ian McKenzi-Smith (right) with Michael Horsnell at the wildlife hedge planting event. Ref shs 0519-02-15TI. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)