Tucked away in part of ‘The Greenway’ lies an unassuming Orchard where Plaistow residents can take a therapeutic journey, somewhere to escape to and experience nature in an otherwise concrete jungle.

As you enter the grounds, you are welcomed by a colourful sign, inviting you to discover fruit hanging from the crab trees, guarded by a robin perching on the railings. Each tree has its own hand-crafted wooden plaque, chiselled by a volunteer. The path leads to wooden boxes filled with juicy tomato vines escaping from their planters and an array of vegetables.

The trail carries on to a seating area made from giant tree trunks, with low hanging branches protecting you from the rain and, further in, there is a ‘bug hotel’ for insects and other creatures. Wandering on, you encounter a meadow of wild fennel and grass up to your waist. As you are about to leave through the rickety gate, you wonder when you will return for your next walk through the secret orchard.

If you need a reason to come by to this magical place, the next event is the ‘Winter Celebration of Planting’ on Sunday November 22nd from 11am until 2pm. It will include wassailing, an age-old custom of singing to trees to promote a good harvest and tree dressing, another historical tradition bringing communities together by tying ribbons to branches and showing an appreciation for the trees.

The ‘Winter Celebration…’ and previously run events have only been made possible because of the ongoing support and funding from Plaistow South Big Local (PSBL) and from individuals such as Milena Rouse and Ros Southern, who are vital in developing the Orchard and its transformation into an independent organisation. Bernie Parrott, a notable figure from the company Tirro, also kindly helped by donating a container that was recently delivered on site.

The Greenway Orchard is an enchanting place and for the small habitat to prosper with more wildlife, it needs diligence and care. If you would like to help it flourish, join the other volunteers every Thursday from 11am until 2pm. The sessions include pruning, planting, cutting back weeds and other green fingered activities, ending with a good ol’ natter and cup of tea.

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