Jill Dando apple trees planted across county

Latest Apple trees planted across a county in memory of one its most inspirational former residents

More apple trees are being planted across Somerset in the memory of the county’s very own Jill Dando, who lived and studied locally before becoming Britain’s best TV journalist.

The latest ones have been laid in the grounds of Pawlett Primary School Academy near Bridgwater, with dozens already planted at other primary schools in The Priory Learning Trust

Children and adults are being encouraged to think of Jill Dando, good news and to be kind to others every time they see a tree.

Emma Barker, headteacher of Pawlett said: “Our pupils and staff will be very excited to see these apple trees blossom.”

Jill was murdered in 1999 but in 2017 her former school, Worle Community School Academy set up a Jill Dando News Centre to get out good news, which has expanded to eight schools including The King Alfred School Academy.

Now the Jill Dando trees, supplied generously by the brilliant Sanders Garden Centre in Highbridge, are going out across the area.

TV gardening legend Alan Titchmarsh has been given advice on the trees and planting.

The schools in TPLT which are helping are The King Alfred School Academy, Priory Community School Academy, Worle Community School Academy, St Anne’s Church Academy, Castle Batch School Academy and Pawlett Primary School Academy.

Alan advised the children to grow a Discovery apple.

He said: “It is a nice rosy apple. It crops generously and ripens ready to eat as early as August without being kept in store.”

WCSA Jill Centre News Centre student editor Olivia Finch, said: “We are so grateful to Mr Titchmarsh for his help.”

The Priory Learning Trust support In Charley’s Memory, a mental health charity for 11 to 25 year olds.

If you need support from the charity call or 01278 557490 or see www.incharleysmemory.co.uk