Growing Together – How YMCA Lincolnshire Helped North Thoresby Blossom with a Community Orchard

At YMCA Lincolnshire, we believe that strong communities grow from the ground up (sometimes quite literally!) One of our most inspiring recent projects, made possible through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), is the development of the North Thoresby Community Orchard, a shining example of what can be achieved when local people, shared passion, and the right support come together.

Planting the Seeds of a Community Vision

In Summer 2024, the village of North Thoresby began creating its very own Community Orchard, supported by the Coronation Orchard Project. With 45 heritage fruit trees allocated and a vision to make the space open to the public throughout the year, residents set out to create something special, a place for everyone to enjoy, learn and connect with nature.

It was around this time that the orchard team met our Community Development Officer, AMS. Through the support of our UKSPF-funded community development project, AMS began working closely with local residents to help establish the orchard’s committee, put formal policies in place, and explore new funding opportunities to bring their vision to life.

Turning Ideas into Impact

With our guidance, the team began preparing an application for the Grassroots Grant Scheme. After attending one of YMCA Lincolnshire’s Funding Webinars on writing a successful grant bid, the group completely reworked their application – just three days before the deadline! That extra effort paid off and they were awarded over £16,000 to develop the orchard into a space open and welcoming to all.

Since then, North Thoresby has transformed its orchard into a thriving hub of activity. The team has installed bee hives, offering free “Meet the Bees” experience days throughout the summer, and has planned a full calendar of events for the year ahead; from Wassails and workshops, to music events and children’s activities.

Nurturing Future Generations

The orchard has also become a wonderful learning environment for local children. In December 2024, the entire local primary school, over 90 pupils, helped plant the orchard’s bare-rooted trees. They’re returned many times since, and in October 2025, pupils ceremonially “claimed” the orchard for the year ahead of paying their rent – the largest apple they could find.

Growing Stronger, Together

This incredible journey is a testament to the power of partnership. The North Thoresby Community Orchard continues to flourish thanks to the dedication of local residents and the ongoing support of YMCA Lincolnshire. AMS continues to work alongside the village on various community projects, embodying YMCA Lincolnshire’s mission to strengthen communities and create opportunities for all.

We’re proud to have played a part in helping North Thoresby grow - not just its trees, but its sense of connection, creativity, and community spirit.