COMMUNITY groups are being offered the chance to receive ten free apple trees from Thatchers Cider.

Ten groups will each be given ten trees ready for planting in their own community orchards or local environments.

You simply need to let Thatchers know about your organisation, your orchard and what planting trees means to you.

Then on Thursday, February 18, ten causes will be chosen as winners in the company's Community Orchard Project

Fourth generation cider maker Martin Thatcher said: "During these very difficult times, we’ve all come to appreciate even more the benefits of outdoor space.

“For those in towns and cities a community orchard can make such a difference to people’s well-being.

"In health and care environments, small orchards too can provide respite and tranquillity throughout the year.”

Thatchers has more than 500 acres of its own orchards in the West Country that lock up approximately 182 tonnes of carbon each year.

Thatchers’ orchards are not just the source of raw ingredients for cider though.

They are a haven for wildlife and an important contributor to the local ecosystem, with insects and invertebrates, birds, bats, pheasant, deer rabbits and hares all thriving.

There are bee hives throughout the orchards to ensure effective pollination at blossom time.

Community groups wishing to be considered for the chance to receive ten trees from Thatchers Cider, should email info@thatcherscider.co.uk explaining about their community and why planting trees is important to you. Or visit Thatchers Facebook page.