Help Newcastle bloom with Thatchers Cider apple trees giveaway

APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN NOW AND CLOSE AT 8AM ON FEBRUARY 2, 2026

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Martin Thatcher visits community fundraisers to see the apple trees planted for the Thatchers Community Orchard Project

(Neil Phillips Photo and Film Ltd)

Community groups across Newcastle are being urged to apply for free apple trees through Thatchers Cider's Community Orchard Project, returning for its sixth year this winter.

The family-owned cidermaker will donate 500 trees nationwide, selecting 50 organisations to each receive ten trees and guidance to establish or expand a neighbourhood orchard.

Fourth-generation cider maker Martin Thatcher said: "From a single apple tree to a community orchard, it can make such a difference to people's well-being.

"We believe orchards are special places that have the power to give communities a place to come together, to learn, to share, to connect with nature and reflect on the world around them, all while contributing to biodiversity and creating new habitats for wildlife."