Midsomer Norton’s town park has just received a new addition thanks to the hardworking people of the Mendip Beekeepers Association.

Members of the group planted a beautiful tree, adding a touch of nature's magic to the community's green space. It is a Malus Gorgeous crab apple tree and will soon be brimming with activity, providing a perfect place for all kinds of pollinating insects and animals.

The gesture highlights Midsomer Norton’s strong community spirit.

The gift forms part of the British Beekeeping Association's 150th anniversary celebrations which involves trees being planted across Britain.

In the warmer months Mendip Beekeepers have apiary meetings once a month to learn and share knowledge of beekeeping with invited demonstrators.

Throughout the winter months there are informal social meetings and events. Anyone is welcome to go to a meeting to see what it’s all about and bee-suits are loaned out to anyone who wants to attend.

A six week beginners’ course on beekeeping starts on Friday, February ,7 from 7pm – 9pm and will be held at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church.

Contact Fred Chaytors on 07801 149865 or visit the website www.somersetbeekeepers.org.uk/mendip.html for more information on the course.

The town park boasts an impressive Purbeck stone amphitheatre which can accommodate 300 people sat around the stage or 600 people sat in the celebration meadow facing the amphitheatre.

The park was opened in 2021 after it was gifted to the town trust from Midsomer Norton town council and features a riverside walk, wild meadow, links to the Five Arches greenway and a sensory garden.

Cllr Gordon Mackay, chairman of the town trust management committee, is delighted with the new addition. He said: “Our town park is an incredible facility for the residents of Midsomer Norton and shows just how much the town council has achieved since it was formed in 2011.

“The park hosts a monthly town park 5K run, dog walking groups, park yoga and is home to the annual town fair and Midsomer Norton music festival which are organised by the community trust.

“I encourage all residents to visit the park and enjoy this wonderful green-space just a few minutes walk from the High Street. If you have ideas for the park or would like to hold events or productions at the amphitheatre, please contact the trust by visiting our website towntrust.co.uk.”