ACTION group members are looking to raise money for seating and picnic benches at a community memorial orchard created at Thorn Wood between Weaverham and Hartford.

The action group wanted to create the orchard in memory of those who fought and died in the world wars and more recent conflicts, and to save the Wareham Russet apple tree from extinction.

It also wanted to provide an amenity area for Weaverham, Hartford and neighbouring communities and for educational visits and social events.

The orchard is situated off Northwich Road alongside The Grange School playing fields, and a service of dedication and remembrance was held there this week.

The action group has planted 80 saplings, 45 of which are Wareham Russet apple trees, and aims to plant more fruit trees next year.

It is also looking to raise money to provide seating and picnic benches, as well as interpretation and notice boards.

The service was attended by Cheshire West and parish councillors from Weaverham and Hartford, representatives of the Woodland Trust, Saltscape, Groundwork, Co-op Funeralcare, Civic Voice, Royal Voluntary Service and local organisations, clubs and societies which have supported the project as well as sponsors, volunteers and residents.

Also attending were pupils and staff from Weaverham and Hartford schools, and Cheshire West councillor Charles Fifield, representing Weaver Vale MP Graham Evans.

Wreaths were laid at the foot of one of the Wareham Russet trees by the Sandiway and Cuddington branch of the Royal British Legion and Northwich Burma Star Association.

The ecumenical service was led by Reverend Andrew Brown, assisted by Father Paul Standish and Reverends Chris Pritchard and Mike Smith.

“Wareham is the old pronunciation for Weaverham, and people born and bred in Weaverham are known as Russets,” said action group chairman Tina Johnson.

“We wanted to remember those Russets who fought and died in both world wars and more recent conflicts and bring the Wareham Russet apple tree back from the brink of extinction.

“When the Woodland Trust offered to lease us an acre of land in Thorn Wood we realised we would be able to plant a large number of Wareham Russet apple trees and celebrate and preserve our heritage by planting as many old varieties of Cheshire fruit trees as possible.

“In addition, as it’s on the outskirts of two villages, it would provide an amenity for more than one community.

“We intend to manage the orchard in an environmentally-sensitive manner, and when the trees are mature to share the harvest.

“We hope the orchard will become a reminder of Cheshire’s apple, pear and damson growing heritage, helping to preserve for everyone to taste and enjoy many old varieties once commonly grown in this area.

“We also hope it will provide a place of quiet reflection for us to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”

Anyone who would like to support fundraising for the seating and noticeboards can email orchard@weaverham.org.uk or call Tina on 01606 851578.