The new partnership – known as Living Orchards – is part of (Herefordshire-based) Westons’ plan to plant 15,000 more apple trees to create a more wildlife-friendly orchard. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with Westons, advising on the planting of the orchards in order to enhance the number and range of wildlife species. And the results will be shared with other cider makers and commercial growers.
Between now and February 2010, every bottle top of Westons Premium Organic Cider and Westons Premium Organic Pear Cider will have a promotional code, which can be redeemed at www.livingorchards.com
Customers are given a virtual tree when they enter a promotional code, and can watch their tree grow each time a new code is entered. As the number of apples on the tree increases, exchange them for gifts and enter a monthly free prize draw to win a picnic bench. Or donate your apples to raise money for The Wildlife Trusts. Apples can be redeemed until the end of March 2010.
The dedicated website, www.livingorchards.com, also gives full details on the project and what Westons hope to achieve.
Rachel Shaw, PR Officer for the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, said: "Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust works closely with many landowners to fulfil our vision of A Living Landscape; managing the land to help native wildlife adapt to climate change. We are delighted about this new relationship and Westons’ enthusiasm to make its orchards more wildlife-friendly."
Chris Packham, vice-president of The Wildlife Trusts, said: "It’s amazing what can be found amongst the UK’s orchards if you look close enough, from bats and butterflies to mistletoe and moths."
Helen Thomas, managing director for Westons, commented: "We are always looking for better ways to balance our commercial needs with sustainable land management and we are really pleased that The Wildlife Trusts are working with us on this project." | 
