Bradford Apple Day

Sunday 10th October 2010 saw a group of volunteers from around the city and beyond descend on West Bowling community orchard for the 10th birthday of Bradford's Apple Day. Celebrating the apple picking season in England, it was a chance to try a wide variety of apples grown locally and to meet others in the community.

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The community orchard is situated on 6 disused allotment plots next to West Bowling park in Bradford and is home to over 40 species of Apple and plum trees. The Orchard is tended throughout the year by a group of volunteers from BEES (Bradford Environmental Education Service) since 2003.

A wide variety of activities were on offer to the nearly 1000 visitors to Apple Day this year, ranging from a demonstration of a traditional cider press, apple themed children's activities, species recognition from local experts and the chance to buy over 20 varieties of English apple grown at the orchard and close by.

A range of vegan and vegetarian food was on offer from the 1in12 Club Peasants' Collective who look after the club's allotment and have been supporting Apple Day for many years.

The event was attended by local residents from across the full spectrum of Bradford's diverse population and a great effort was made this year to ensure that the event was accessible for people with disabilities.

The organisers hailed this year's event a huge success and will be making plans for next year soon. For those who missed out, Hebden Bridge Apple Day, coupled with the annual Stubbing Wharf cider festival is just a few weeks away on October 23rd, details can be found at the Stubbing Wharf website.

Contact email: jimdog@northern-indymedia.org