THE FUTURE of Dartmoor orchards will be the subject for the 8th annual debate by the Dartmoor Society on October 1. Held at Lustleigh Village Hall, the day will be a celebration of Dartmoor?s apple and cider orchards, with information on their history and use, and is intended to stimulate a revival of interest. In 1960 there were 780 orchards within Dartmoor National Park?s boundary but by 1997 only 46 were still being managed and 321 had been destroyed. The day is expected to attract all those who are interested in learning more about local food and how it can be produced and marketed. Speakers will include Dan Keech from the national organisation SUSTAIN on the importance of orchards, Tom Greeves from the Dartmoor Society on the history of Dartmoor orchards and Barry Sessions on the Lustleigh community orchard. Celia Steven, great grand-daughter of Henry Merryweather who pioneered the Bramley apple, will be present and products from four Dartmoor orchards will be on sale. The day is open to all and there will be plenty of time for discussion. For information, contact the Dartmoor Society on 01822 617004.
