Orchard and Fruit Tree Survey
Brightwell-cum-Sotwell has traditionally been a centre for orchards and fruit growing. Like many other fruit growing areas in England there has been a decline in the number and quality of orchards in the last 50 years. Recognising the environmental value of orchards, the Brightwell-cum-Sotwell Environment Group is carrying out a survey of the fruit trees and orchards in the village.
We are particularly interested in finding out about the apple trees in the village, for example, what varieties there are and the age of the trees and orchards. In addition, we hope to find out more about the wildlife found in and around our village fruit trees.
We would greatly value your contribution to the fruit tree survey by giving us information about any fruit trees you have in your garden on this form.
If you would like more information, or you would like help with the identification of your apple trees, or sources of information about fruit trees and orchards please contact any of the members of the Environment Group named on this form.
Who to contact
Please complete and return your form to Alison Bloomfield at acbloomfield@googlemail.com, to any other Environment Group member or to Sue Robson at the Red Lion, Brightwell Street
We have included this questionnaire in the Villager Magazine so that it has as wide as possible a distribution. You can download the form in Microsoft Word format by clicking here, or request a form by email by contacting acbloomfield@googlemail.com.
Publication of the results
Some villagers might already know their tree varieties and can complete the form now; others might want to wait until their trees are in bloom or fruiting before they can identify what they have. We hope to start receiving information soon but expect most of the survey to be carried out between May and October.
The results of the survey will be published by the end of the year and will be available in the Villager Magazine and on the village website. A full presentation will be given at an Environment Group meeting.
Look out for other apple-themed events around the village later in the year. Thank you for all your help.