Northwich families can learn more about foraging and growing their own food during next week's half-term break. 

Dane Valley Community Orchard is hosting a half-term open day which will include apple pressing, foraging in the new ‘edible hedgerow,’ craft activities, and tutorials and advice on growing your own fruit.

The free event takes place on Monday, October 24, between 11am and 3pm, and families are invited to stay for the whole event, or to drop in when they can.

The event is organized by Transition Northwich, a community group working together to share ideas and create positive changes in the town to combat climate change and ecological pressures.

Northwich Guardian: Apples from Dane Valley Community Orchard (Transitions Northwich)Apples from Dane Valley Community Orchard (Transitions Northwich) (Image: Transitions Northwich)

Transition Northwich coordinator, Alison Allum, said: “Everything is free for families who participate, and all materials are provided.

“There will be apple pressing, crafts, a treasure hunt, and we’re going to be sowing some wildflower seeds which will come up next year, so families will be able to go down and enjoy those when they flower."

Northwich Guardian: Freshly pressed apple juice from the orchard (Transitions Northwich)Freshly pressed apple juice from the orchard (Transitions Northwich) (Image: Transitions Northwich)

Alison added that the open day is a good opportunity for people to find out about volunteering opportunities. 

“We are very much looking for more volunteers. In an outdoor space, everything keeps on growing, and we need to keep on top of it.

“We all know the benefits of spending time outdoors, and there is nothing nicer than to do that through the year, and see the seasonal changes.

“It’s a really friendly group which offers opportunities to learn, as well as to chat together.

“Pete Attwood of Groundworks, who oversees our sessions, has a huge amount of experience, so anyone who iwants to learn how to grow their own food, especially fruit, can pick up lots of tips.

“It’s a brilliant year for apples! And in the spring, the orchard produce lots of berries – redcurrants, blackcurrant, raspberries - alongside apples, pears and plums in the autumn. 

"Volunteers get to take the fruit away with them. No one goes home empty handed."

The orchard is accessed from a footpath alongside 14 Marlowe Road, Rudheath. CW9 7GA, and a newly laid path makes access easy in all weathers.