THE UNIVERSITY of Reading is inviting residents to help plant some new fruit trees at Swallows Meadow in Lower Earley this week.
The event is being led by Freely Fruity, a local charity that plants wild fruit trees in community spaces, providing free fruit for local residents and a better environment for wildlife.
The charity is working with the University of Reading, which owns and manages the space, as well as Earley Environmental Group, Wokingham Borough Council and Earley Town Council, the event will bring together people who can help with the planting, learn new skills and enjoy being surrounded by nature.
Freely Fruity is donating 50 young fruit trees of various species for the event.
Swallows Meadow is an area of open green space in Lower Earley.
It was officially opened to the public in November last year after work was undertaken to make the space better signed and more accessible.
Matt Knight, Co-Founder of Freely Fruity, said: “It’s really important to our charity that we engage local people and organisations, in their green spaces.
“Planting fruit trees is brilliant for the environment and wildlife–furthermore, it’s a fantastic resource for residents to learn new skills and help them enjoy their natural surroundings.”
Molli Cleaver, Community Engagement Manager at the University of Reading, said: “We know that Swallows Meadow is a popular walking spot for many local residents.
“We are extremely grateful to Freely Fruity for donating these trees, and their time, to help enhance this green space even further.
“The event will be a great opportunity to bring people together as we continue to work with the community to nurture this well-loved green space.”
The event takes place at Swallows Meadow in Lower Earley from 10am-noon on Saturday, March 29.
People joining the event are encouraged to travel sustainably.
