THE seeds of a new project in Weymouth will be sewn this weekend.

Residents will come together tomorrow (Sat) to plant a community orchard at the Marsh amid a plan to improve the area and get the community more involved.

Leaflets have been distributed to promote the project, a partnership between the Friends of the Marsh and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council's parks department.

Residents are invited to join in and plant the trees. No experience is necessary although volunteers are asked to bring spades and forks if they have them.

The Friends' group say they hope the orchard will bear fruit and become a 'fantastic resource' for everyone in the area.

Not only will the trees provide free fruit, they will help create an enjoyable environment for the community to enjoy.

The orchard project comes as the borough council makes decision on the future management of The Marsh as it looks to save money. Athletics clubs have committed to help run facilities and the community is having more of a say in what happens there, with the orchard among the idea suggested.

Friends chairman Cllr Mike Byatt said: "I was able to secure some funds to purchase trees and residents will be planting them on Saturday on the grassy area, subject to weather conditions.

"We will be celebrating the launch of this important event, something which residents have come up with to help improve the Marsh and develop a different agenda for the area."

Those interested in helping plant the orchard are asked to meet on the grass behind the swimming pool at 10.30am tomorrow.

It is hoped some refreshments can be provided.

More information from Cllr Mike Byatt on 01305 786068.

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