Sun shines on open day

Coatbridge community orchard hosted a successful open day, with more than 100 visitors enjoying a taste of summer at the beauty spot.

It was the second annual fun day at the newly-created public woodland on a former bowling green in the town’s West End Park.

Visitors were able to see applepressing demonstrations, buy plants, learn about beekeeping, and enjoy face painting and outdoor games.

Stephen Kirley, one of the event’s organisers, said:“It was a very successful event; we had lots of families attending and lots of engagement.

“Apple-pressing was the most popular thing, showing how to make instant apple juice, which is something we’d like to be able to do regularly in the future.

“It gave people an idea of what the orchard is about and what our future plans are going to be, such as planting flower beds which will be handed to St Augustine’s and Langloan, and different varieties of berries and rhubarb.

“Lots of people were interested in the project and we hope some of those who came through the gates will visit again and help with work parties or social events.”

He added:“We’d actually wondered if we should call it off following the rain and horrendous flooding the day before – but we had surprisingly good weather and definitely more people attending than we’d imagined.”

The community orchard was created on a second, unused green beside West End bowling club, with the first trees being planted in late 2016.

On target Orchard visitors tried out a range of outdoor games second year

Pressing matter Community members of all ages tried out the apple-pressing demonstration

Getting creative Youngsters were treated to a variety of activities

Taste of summer The sun shone on Coatbridge orchard’s second annual open day

Green space Coatbridge community orchard, located in West End Park, is now in its

Star attraction Visitors were keen to see the apple-pressing demonstrations

Grand designs Face painting was among the stalls on offer