Support sees village community orchard idea bear fruit

VILLAGERS in Shepley have sponsored trees to create a community orchard in a local activity centre.

Cliffe House, the perennially popular outdoor pursuits centre in the hills above Huddersfield, has planted an array of trees in its 11-acre grounds.

Among them is a greengage plum, chosen by the Lowe family in tribute to husband, father and grandfather Terry Lowe, who passed away suddenly in August.

The entire family - wife Kath, daughter Donna, son Richard, grandson Ellis, son-in-law James and daughter-in-law Laura - were present to see the tree planted.

Now other local folk have followed suit.

Said Kath: “I wondered if we would be able to sponsor a tree without the orchard becoming a memorial garden. The answer was yes.

“The family was delighted. It’s a living tribute to Terry and it means that Cliffe House can use the fruit in the kitchens, so it’s not going to waste. I think it’s a great idea. Cliffe House is a great asset to the village.”

Ward councillor John Taylor (Con, Kirkburton) said: “I thought Kath’s suggestion was a wonderful idea and am happy we have been able to agree.

“Others in the village have also asked to sponsor a fruit tree and I’d ask anyone interested to get in touch with me.”

Built by the Senior family of brewers in 1888, the 14-room mansion on Lane Head Road in Shepley is Grade II-listed. It remained a family home until just after the Second World War.

Cliffe House celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2018 as one of the north’s premier locations for introducing modern children to the wonders of the wild.