Orchard Noticeboards Refurbished

Orchard Noticeboards Refurbished

Despite lockdown a number of Wildlife Group members have been working on our sites either as individuals or couples.

The main focus has been on the noticeboards of which we have 6 large ones, one small and two more due to be erected soon. After a trial we have opted to repaint them Sage-coloured which blends in more with the countryside and is distinctive to the parish. The Welsh and Elizabethan Orchards have been completed and the notices re-affixed. The Community Orchard has been repainted and notices are back up. We shall move on to the Wild Orchard next. These play an important role in communicating what we are doing and why with visitors, many of whom are from outside the village.

Other work involves clearing vegetation and strimming paths, trimming willow, planting in our raised beds and cleaning the benches and other furniture which is as popular with wildlife as humans but with the inevitable consequence in terms of ‘bird poo’. A new bench has been installed at the top of the Upper Orchid Field in memory of the Kennetts who lived in Barry but were supportive of the Wildlife Group.

We continue to receive regular photos from residents either notifying us of plants and animals spotted or asking for help in identifying them. These are added to the wildlife recording database for South East Wales (SEWBREC) which ensures the records are properly logged and retained. Species recently include Dwarf Spurge (plant), Shaggy Ink Cap (fungus) and Pied Hoverfly. These and many more can be seen on our Facebook pages.

When working in the orchards, we often meet people who say that they were not previously aware of them. So each month we shall refer to one of them.

The Community Orchard is closest to the centre of Wenvoe and on the Playing Fields. To get there take the footbridge over the by-pass and continue down Station Road. After 100 metres turn right into the Playing Fields and the orchard is at the very far end hidden behind a hedgerow. You can also take the tunnel from Vennwood Close and follow the path.