A successful initiative between NHS Somerset Armed Forces team and the National Trust at Dunster Castle goes from strength to strength. ‘Project Orchard’ is a collaboration between both organisations to support military veterans and their friends and families, across Somerset, to come together and transform an overgrown woodland area in West Somerset into a blossoming community orchard for all to enjoy.
Since mid-April 2025, a dedicated team of volunteers supported by staff at Dunster Castle have been rolling up their sleeves and mucking in to work through thickets of brambles, stinging nettles and invasive saplings to clear and level the site. The transformation has involved removing unwanted growth, enriching the soil with compost and, most recently, planting apple trees that will one day provide shade, fruit and a place for the community to come together.
To mark the planting milestone, the group celebrated with homemade apple scones and apple juice; bringing together volunteers, friends, and family in a moment of well-earned pride.
Rebecca Oliver, Armed Forces Community Officer at NHS Somerset said, “This project is about so much more than planting trees. It’s about connection, purpose, and wellbeing – providing members of the Armed Forces community with an outdoor space to work, reflect and be part of something meaningful in the beautiful surroundings of Dunster Castle.”
Veterans from Minehead, Taunton and Chard have taken part, with many accompanied by family and friends. Even when unable to join in the physical work, some have still attended to encourage their fellow volunteers – demonstrating the camaraderie and peer support that has underpinned the project from day one.
Ian is a volunteer and a military veteran and says “It gets you out, gets you to meet people and gets you to do things outside of your normal comfort zone”.
The National Trust have been delighted to engage on this project and speaking on their behalf Amy Wigglesworth says “Working in partnership with the NHS and Armed Forces Community to create an Orchard at Dunster Castle has been an incredible experience. The Veterans, who have chosen to take part, have been an absolute joy to work alongside. We’ve loved getting to know them, hearing their stories, and seeing how much they enjoy spending time outdoors in their local community engaging with nature. Together, come rain or shine, we’re creating something truly special for everyone to use and enjoy — a lasting, positive contribution to our community.”
After each session, it has become tradition for the group to gather for lunch outdoors, whatever the weather, to soak in the stunning views and enjoy the peaceful setting they’ve helped restore.
The orchard will grow into a welcoming space for the entire community; it is situated just outside of the pay gate entrance to the Castle and free to enter. It is hoped that it will be a lasting legacy, created by the Armed Forces community, for everyone who visits to enjoy.
NHS Somerset has a dedicated Armed Forces team to offer support and advice to the Military community in Somerset. More information can be found on the NHS Somerset website.
