Peterculter residents who transformed a barren piece of land into a flourishing community orchard have been enjoying the fruits of their labours.
The first crops were harvested at the Millside Street site yesterday, while final touches were added to the garden’s WWI memorial area.
A plaque was also unveiled to commemorate the completion of the project, which was a joint venture between the city council and Culter in Bloom.
Planting started at the site last year after developer Barratt Homes donated the land to the local authority to create a community space.
Local residents worked alongside the council’s volunteer rangers team to plant apples, cherries, plums, gooseberries, redcurrants and blackcurrants.
Hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel and wild rose hedges planted by Culter Boys Brigade are also thriving at the site, as are wildflowers sown by the local girl guides and two raised beds of potatoes and vegetables tended by the cubs.
The idea for the orchard came from Culter in Bloom and was supported by council deputy leader and local councillor Marie Boulton.
The Lower Deeside ward member said: “This fantastic project has made such a difference to the community by not only having the orchard which is available to the public but also having a war memorial in a more accessible place.
“It really is a testament to the work carried out by Culter in Bloom along with all the volunteers and it’s great now that some of the first harvest is now available for residents to pick.
“We’d encourage other communities around the city to be inspired by this project as it brings people from all different backgrounds and ages together.”
The garden also houses a curved stone memorial bench, so visitors who are unable to get to the hilltop war memorial to the west of the village can pay their respects to the fallen.
Culter in Bloom chairman Erik Stien said: “Our motto is “planting pride in the community” and this is what we are really trying to achieve, with very welcome co-operation from the city council, residents, donors, and local businesses alike.”
