Apple day celebrations in Rochdale

Bob Bevan, Rochdale Council town centre parks ranger, Derek Addy, local orchard planter, Carey Robinson, Rochdale Council and Pennine Edge Forest co-ordinator, Kathryn Taylor and Megan Robey.

A handmade crate of locally grown apples have been enjoyed as part of National Apple Day.

As reported previously on Rochdale Online, local people are forming a ‘Rochdale Woodland Co-operative’ to help promote and protect local biodiversity and amenity spaces.

Co-ordinator of the project, Jason Addy, said: “The ideal of a co-operative feels right for Rochdale. We are joining together and working alongside community and Friends groups, local schools, businesses and Area Forums, council countryside and parks staff, and organisations such as the Pennine Edge Forest. It really could be win-win and a chance to promote our town in a positive light.

“Not only is this an opportunity for everyone to share, enjoy and improve our public open spaces it about re-connecting with and appreciating local food production and our natural heritage”

“It would be lovely to help bring back old Lancashire fruit varieties and support new ones. Perhaps we could name one Rochdale Gold.”