A SOMERSET farm is giving away 500 apple tress to community groups up and down the country. 

Thatchers is again running it's Community Orchard Project for the fourth year. The cider maker is looking for 50 organisations that do great things in their neighbourhoods to be the recipients of ten apple trees each.

To date, Thatchers has donated more than 1,000 apple trees to local organisations and groups. 

Martin Thatcher, who makes cider at Myrtle Farm, explained that the project is 'all about community'. 

"It’s about understanding how apple trees can not only bring joy, but can act as a means of bringing people together," he said. 

"Whether that’s planting the trees and contributing to the growth of orchards,  learning about the lifecycle of a delicious apple, or coming together to press fruit at harvest time, apple trees are a wonderful way to create community spirit.

“Growing apple trees really matters.”

The 2024 project is now open for applications until Monday, February 5. To apply, click here. You will need to write a brief description of your organisation and why you should recieve the bundle of trees. 

Every organisation selected to receive trees will be given instructions on how to plant their trees, how to care for them throughout the seasons, and a commemorative plaque.

“We all know that planting trees helps the environment and supports biodiversity, but being out in nature is so good for wellbeing too," Martin added.

"Over the last three years our project has been able to help over 175 groups across the country from residents associations rewilding their communities; schools and colleges teaching their pupils about the origins of their food; and care homes creating peaceful havens for residents.”