Church set to create new memorial orchard in Cradley (From Halesowen News)

Church set to create new memorial orchard in Cradley

11:44am Tuesday 4th September 2012 in News

CRADLEY is set to get its first ever memorial orchard meadow where people can remember loved ones in an oasis of beauty.

A section of St Peter’s Church’s land, which is unsuitable for burials, will be transformed into the meadow complete with wild flowers, saplings and fruit trees.

The Cradley Business in the Community Partnership is already working together to ensure the new memorial meadow will be open to the public later this month.

On September 12 volunteers from local businesses will be descending on the churchyard to help clear the land and plant trees.

Reverend Katrynn Leclezio is looking forward to seeing the new memorial meadow in all its glory.

She said: “If we can’t bury people there, the next best use is to plant trees in memory of loved ones who have died. “That way people have physical memorial to a special person, and, the community has a resource in fruit trees which the people of Cradley can use.”

She added: “We hope to use traditional Staffordshire fruit stock, and so keeping alive our local heritage in this small way.” Local primary schools are set to be involved in planting meadow plants and a local beekeeper is keen to bring in a hive during the pollinating season.

Rev Leclezio said: “The first step in the project is to clear the land of brambles and shrubs so that the orchard can be planned. “The charity Business in the Community is giving a day to begin the task and about 30 volunteers from local businesses are giving a day on September 12 to get stuck in and clear the field. If anyone from local businesses wants to come and join in the fun and work.” She added: “Anyone who wants to come a long, bring some sturdy shoes, thick gloves and some tools.”