Events

More about the Bridge of Allan Allotment Association Community Orchard Tree Planting event

It has been almost a year since the Council announced their intention to raise allotment plot rent by almost 300%. What resulted was a petition led by plot holder Ronnie Don and a desire by plot holders to move from Council management to self-management. January this year saw the newly formed Bridge of Allan Allotment Association achieve charitable status. In addition, it was the dream of plot holder Ronnie Don to develop a Community Orchard and Garden as an additional part of the allotment site. This dream became a reality with grant funding from FEL secured by Association Secretary, Jen Clarke. The ‘seed grant’ paid for a consultation with John Hancox of Scottish Fruit Trees and an introductory pack of heritage fruit trees, including the ‘Stirling Castle’ apple tree.

As the bare root tree planting season was rapidly coming to an end, it was vital that the first trees were planted by the end of March. Queue the 11th Bridge of Allan Scout Group who were more than happy to lend a hand to plant the first 8 trees and at least 30 willow cuttings to create the boundary of the orchard. Blessed with a warm and sunny Sunday, gazebo in place, the community and Scouts arrived in number to assist. Butterfly Conservation provided posters and leaflets, application forms to join the Association were at the ready (membership is free for anyone living in the Stirling area) and a large box of apples awaited the eager volunteers once the planting was complete. Plot holders Sandy Leathley, Jimmy Don and Jim Cullen provided planting guidance for the scouts. The Stirling Observer sent a photographer to record what proved to be a very successful event.

Thanks, must be extended to FEL, John Hancox at Scottish Fruit Trees, Butterfly Conservation, the 11th Bridge of Allan Scouts, plot holders and the wider community who supported the event. The Bridge of Allan Allotment Association is delighted to be able to give back to the local community by developing the orchard and are grateful to everyone in the community who supported the petition back at the beginning of this journey.

It is planned that the remaining 192 fruit trees will be planted later this year. The 11th Bridge of Allan Scouts have offered to assist both with planting and providing a marquee which will allow the event to include a community BBQ.

Meantime, workshop events with Butterfly Conservation are in the planning for during the summer months.

The future is looking bright for the Bridge of Allan Allotment Association and Community Orchard.