THE Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum have teamed up with a local condiment maker to give visitors a flavour of what can be achieved when we all work with nature.
The award-winning Tracklements condiments have joined forces with the National Arboretum charity to produce a special edition Medlar Jelly; fifty pence from the sale of each jar will go directly to the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum, whose role is to support the development and long term future of the arboretum.
The Medlar Tree is known for its beautiful blossom, whilst the unusual looking Medlar fruit is often compared to a ‘dog’s bottom’. Despite its appearance and tart flavour if eaten raw, medlars make delicious jelly which is fruity and sweet – the perfect accompaniment for roast meats, ham and pork pies or your table for Christmas lunch!
Thanks to donations from in and around the local community, more than 270kg of medlars were collected in the 2014 season and Medlar Jelly sold out.
This year, visitors to Westonbirt Arboretum are invited to drop off their medlars at the collection point outside the front of the Welcome Building between the October 1 and November 16. A drop off point for medlars is also available just two miles from Westonbirt at Tracklements Head Office based in Easton Grey, Malmesbury.
Lorraine Jones, Fundraising Manager at The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum said: "We hope to make even more Medlar Jelly this season, but we can’t do it without your help! If you have or know of a Medlar tree near you, please donate the fruit.
"Your involvement will directly support and care for the amazing tree collection here at Westonbirt, for future generations to enjoy.”
There are three Medlar trees within the collection at Westonbirt which visitors can find using the online interactive map (www.westonbirtmap.co.uk). At each tree visitors can learn fun facts about Medlar trees and their fruit as well as more information about the partnership.
Medlar Jelly will be available in speciality delis, butchers and farm shops nationwide or online from November. For more information please visit www.fowa.org.uk
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