Video tells story of Grantham's Heroes Orchard
By The Editor
12th May 2020 | Local News
A new video telling the story of Grantham's Heroes Orchard has been released by the Wyndham Park Forum to mark VE Day.
The short video, featuring Arnhem veteran Lol Martin of the First Airborne Division Royal Signals, has added poignancy as Lol, whose daughter donated money to the orchard crowdfund appeal, died on March 29 from a COVID-related illness.
The video tells the story of how the orchard was planted from bare pasture owned by the National Trust into a living memorial to British forces and wartime allies who came together to fight for freedom.
The orchard's 75 trees on land now leased by South Kesteven District Council mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, commemorating a rich local aviation and airborne forces.
Lol's daughter's testimonial is featured along with others, including one from the daughter of Major General Roy Urquhart, Commander 1st Airborne Division which trained locally before flying to Arnhem from Barkston Heath and Saltby.
The video also has pictures of those who helped raise money through the council's CrowdfundSK project.
The final two trees, two American maples to mark the United States' contribution to the war, are being planted this week.
Ian Simmons, Chairman of the Wyndham Park Forum, which manages the orchard, said; "It's less than a year since we first discussed this project and here we are with the orchard planted and the trees in blossom. It's an amazing achievement and a great partnership project.
"I want to thank everyone who has contributed to our Heroes Orchard either financially or practically, allowing us to turn a lovely idea into a stunning living reality, just in time for VE Day."
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