VOLUNTEERS in a small village in North Wiltshire have been busy planting apples trees thanks to a donation from popular cider brand. 

Family cider business Thatchers donated apples trees to Latton's Community Jubilee Garden as part of the Thatchers Community Orchard Project which helps community groups, schools and charities across the UK plant more trees. 

They donated a range apple varieties, including the popular eating apple Egremont Russet; Bramley, a favourite for cooking; and Yarlington Mill, a traditional Somerset cider apple. 

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Villagers of all ages got stuck in, under the expert direction of 4- year old Eli Fletcher. Villagers of all ages got stuck in, under the expert direction of 4- year old Eli Fletcher. (Image: Latton Parish Council)

The Latton Parish Council hopes to transform their jubilee garden into a welcoming and valuable space to be used by everyone in the village. 

This community garden was funded by Wiltshire Area Board’s Health and Wellbeing Fund, along with help and support from Latton Parish Council and residents of the village.

Thatchers Community Orchard Project state the aim of this project on their wesbite, "the project shares our family’s passion for apple trees, building communities and constant effort in supporting the environment and ecosystem around us today and for the future."

Thatchers has given over 500 trees in total this year and aked organisations to explain why planting trees would be beneficial for their communities.

One Latton resident said: “Latton is a tiny village with a big community focus at its heart.

"Our plan is for the Jubilee Gardens to be an attractive, enjoyable and productive space that brings people together. 

"A garden where people can meet, share ideas, plan events, and grow fruit, vegetables, herbs and flowers that the entire community may benefit from.”

Fourth generation cider maker, Martin Thatcher said: “From a single apple tree to a community orchard, it can make such a difference to people’s wellbeing which is why we’re delighted to be donating these apple trees to Latton through our Community Orchard Project.”