Bridgwater College’s Cannington Community Orchard project has come second in the local Tesco’s Bags of Help initiative¹ vote and received an additional £10,000.

The money, which was raised for environmental and greenspace projects, from the 5p bag levy, will go towards improving the Community Orchard in partnership with Bridgwater College, The Walled Gardens of Cannington and Seed of Hope, a therapeutic gardening project.

Work has already begun on the initial stages of the project, and the money from Tesco’s initiative will go on materials for the pathways and plants. Bridgwater College will loan some equipment for the project.

The aim of the Spring Orchard project is to revitalise the orchard, to improve access and develop the aesthetics of the area, which will hopefully lead to an increased use of the orchard. The second aim is to provide the opportunity for 12 people with mental health problems, from diverse backgrounds and locations across Sedgemoor, to benefit from Seed of Hope. Participants will have the opportunity to gain a City and Guilds Level 1 qualification in Practical Horticultural Skills.

Caroline Silke, Head of Community at Tesco said,

“Bags of Help has been a fantastic success. We have been overwhelmed by the response of our customers and the feedback has been brilliant. We can’t wait to see the money being put to use bringing these projects to life.”

Kris Scotting, from Seed of Hope said,

“It's fantastic to have received funding from Tesco’s Bags of Help initiative. This will really make a difference in our community. We can expand on the existing facilities in Cannington Community Orchard, and provide opportunity for local people to experience Seed of Hope.”

If you would like more information about The Walled Gardens of Cannington call 01278 655042, email walledgardens@bridgwater.ac.uk. To find out more about Seed of Hope visit www.seedofhope.org.uk, or email kris@seedofhope.org.uk.