What The Worcester News said

Rare breed of apple comes back to Redditch.

A RARE breed of apple found only in Redditch is being re-introduced in a community orchard.

The almost forgotten Doddin apple

A number of volunteers recently braved the weather to help plant a number of Doddin apple trees on Headless Cross Green.

The almost forgotten Doddin is the size of a golf ball and can be eaten whole including the core.

Neil Marsh, one of the residents behind organising the community orchard, said: “It's great that we're bringing the Doddin back.”

“We used to go scrumping for them in our neighbours’ gardens when we were kids.

“I think it’s amazing that here I am now planting Doddin trees with my kids. It’s a big part of our Redditch heritage.”

The Doddin is being re-introduced with the help of Walcot Organic Nursery and the Doddin Preservation Society.

Pip Taylor, founder of society, said: “The actual numbers of the Doddin are not known, but recently it could have been less than 20 trees.

“With the help of Walcot Organic Nursery that is now set to change.”

Residents who wish to purchase their own Doddin apple tree are being advised to have it planted before the end of March next year.

To order a tree or for more information, visit 01905 841587

14th Dec. 2010