A PLAN to build a community orchard is underway in a Fearnhead park.

The Friends of Longbarn Park have planted eight fruit trees — donated by The Mersey Forest project — which are the foundation for the community orchard the group hopes to create.

The group was set up in November to tidy up the park and around 30 people came down on last Saturday and Sunday to help them plant the apple, pear and damson trees.

Chairman of the friends group Vinny Higham said: "I decided I wanted us to plant a community orchard and I think people thought I was a bit mad but then someone in the council picked up on it and got in touch with The Mersey Forest project.

"The eight trees are the start of our orchard and when they start to mature and bear fruit anyone who wants to use it can come along and take home some fruit."

To find more out about the group and upcoming events, visit the Friends of Longbarn Park Facebook page.