A grant of up to £10,000 to plant a community orchard is available to Malvern organisations and businesses.

Malvern Hills District Council's grant can be used to cover the costs of trees, protection, fencing, and installation for a community orchard.

Schools, residents’ associations, community groups, charities, businesses, and parish or town councils from across the district are all eligible to apply.

The orchards can be situated on private or public land, with the aim of providing community access and engagement opportunities.

In the past, Tenbury Town Council received a grant of more than £300 to establish a small orchard in its Civic Garden, off Teme Street.

Five fruit trees were planted by Tenbury-based company Frank P Matthews Tree Shop, including three apple trees (Adam's Pearmain, Herefordshire Russet, and Red Windsor), one Conference Pear, and one Victoria Plum.

Councillor Lesley Bruton, town clerk at Tenbury Town Council, said: "Tenbury was named 'The Town in the Orchard' by Queen Victoria, and this funding opportunity helped the council create a small community orchard in the town, as well as creating a lasting tribute for the King's Coronation.

"The orchard will improve the area for residents' wellbeing and visitors' enjoyment, who will be able to pick the fruit."

Councillor Mark Driscoll, portfolio holder for environmental services at the Malvern Hills District Council, said: "Time is running out to apply for this wonderful opportunity.

"Community orchards are excellent places for people to come together to plant and cultivate a variety of fruit trees and to use the area as a focal point for community activities.

"Tree planting has an important role to play in tackling climate change, and it will also help support our ambition to become a carbon-neutral district."

The grant is part of the £2.5 million provided by the UK Government to local authorities through The Coronation Living Heritage Fund (CLHF), which celebrates the coronation of King Charles III and supports tree-planting projects across England.

Applications must be submitted by Friday, December 20.

Further information, including the selection criteria, can be found at www.malvernhills.gov.uk/clhf.

For additional assistance, contact CLHF@malvernhills.gov.uk.