Newcastle University

Six-year-old pupils from Chillingham Road Primary School were joined at Cochrane Park by staff from the University and Cllr Nigel Todd, deputy cabinet member for environment and transport at Newcastle City Council.
 
They planted apple and plum trees to lay the foundations of an orchard which will benefit the local community for many years to come.
 
It is hoped that once fruiting, this orchard will be a learning resource for schools and also enhance the educational programmes run by EastEnd Health at the Cochrane Park allotment ‘Wor Lotty’ in Newcastle.
 
The event, on 29 November, also involved a teaching session and a photo activity, where the children explored the woodland at Cochrane Park and used their new-found knowledge to take photos of the varied biodiversity on site.
 
“This event reflects the University’s commitment to enhance biodiversity through not only practical projects across the estate, but also engagement and outreach programmes,” said Zoe Webb, biodiversity co-ordinator. 



As part of this commitment, events and activities have been taking place throughout the autumn, from tree trails to bird box workshops, with more planned for next year. A Biodiversity Action Plan for the University estate is also being developed.
 
Further information from Zoe Webb, biodiversity co-ordinator, on 0191 222 8217.