By Isle of Wight Observer
A native apple tree has been planted by Newport & Carisbrooke Town Council (NCTC) at Simeon Monument, on the Simeon Green, in Newport. The ‘Bembridge Beauty’ tree was provided by Island company, Grafters Nursery, in Godshill – previously known as Deacons – and owner, Brian Deacon, assisted with the planting.
Cllr Ray Harrington-Vail, chairman of the NCTC assets & facilities committee, said: “This area was once part of the orchard at Little Gatcombe. The Island has lost many of its orchards since the Second World War, and we hope this planting will inspire others to plant apple trees.”
In February, Brian will graft onto the tree, creating a unique multi-variety tree. The public will be invited to watch and learn more about the process, offering a practical opportunity to discover this traditional horticultural skill.
Further tree planting will be taking place at other locations in Newport over the next six months.
A spokesman for NCTC added: “We are very grateful to Brian for sharing his knowledge and expertise, as we look to increase tree planting throughout the town.”
Brian can be contacted on 07977 150102, or via the Grafters Facebook page.
