A crowdfunding campaign has begun after Radstock’s recently installed community orchard was destroyed on 14th May. Fifteen trees were damaged, with nine of these beyond repair.

Chair of Radstock In Bloom, Sean Fletcher, told The Journal: “We were deeply disappointed when we saw the damage. This was to be the orchard’s first year in the RHS’ ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ competition.

“We have had an overwhelming response, and we would like to thank everyone for the messages of support and suggestions received.

“Radstock in Bloom hope to raise enough money to replant the trees, and make the community orchard more accessible from the car park by providing steps. We will also approach Radstock Town Council to see if they can repair the fencing and install a litter bin. We want both people and wildlife to enjoy this space, and not be put off by a mindless act of vandalism against nature.

“It will still be entered into the competition. We hope the judges will see past the negative and see how, as a community, we have turned it into a positive.”

Crowdfunding has begun to raise £1,500 to replace and improve the space at: https://www.justgiving.com/crowd funding/radstock-community-orchard