THE blooming orchards of Colwall formed the beautiful setting for a Big Blossom Picnic with fun for all the family.

The event, hosted by the Colwall Orchard Group, took place in Broadwood Orchard, just off the Walwyn Road.

Children could take part in bug hunts and nature trails, and there were guided walks among Colwall's orchards, where volunteers were ready to show what the group is doing to preserve traditional orchards.

And in a specially-erected geodesic dome, batik artist Marie-Therese King led a children's art zone.

The Colwall Orchard Group was started by Colwall resident Helen Stace. Working from old maps and aerial photographs, and with the help of local orchard owners, the group has tracked down and assessed the remaining orchards in Colwall and organised tree rescue days, training orchard owners and volunteers in tree planting, pruning and aftercare to restore dilapidated sites.

This winter 50 new trees were planted and 150 trees were pruned in 11 orchards across the village. The group also holds events to celebrate the village orchards throughout the year, of which this was one.