Nick recently joined the Friends of East Greenwich Pleasaunce, in 'wetting' new fruit trees with cider in the traditional manner at a planting ceremony in the Pleasaunce.

Enthusiastic volunteers, young and old, helped dig holes, spread mulch, hammer in stakes and fit protective cages. Councillors Mary Mills (pictured), Miranda Williams and Alex Grant also showed their support for the event.

The 'Pleasaunce Memorial Orchard' - named in honour of the seamen buried nearby - comprises apple, pear and plum saplings that will complement the existing mature flowering cherries in the square patch of grass behind the south-west corner of the dog-free zone. The trees should begin bearing fruit after about three years.

The project, organised in conjunction with Transition Westcombe, was made possible thanks to funding from Greenwich Pride, Capital Growth East London, and Awards for All, and support from the London Orchard Project and Greenwich Parks and Open Spaces Department.