We’re so pleased to announce that Lesley Wertheimer, one of our brilliant Orchard Mentors, has won the Acorn Award in recognition of her amazing dedication as a community volunteer for The Orchard Project. The accolade was announced at the London Tree and Woodland Award Ceremony on Wednesday 10th July, held at the prestigious London Assembly building by Tower Bridge. Lesley was delighted to receive a framed certificate and hard-carved bowl made out of Poplar wood.
Winner of the Acorn Award 2019
The presenter, Tony Kirkham (head of the arboretum at Kew Gardens) said, “In the last year alone, she’s given over 170 volunteer hours to at least 15 of The Orchard Project’s community orchards. She has partnered with several local groups, giving them support and advice on tree care and bee-keeping. Her passion and enthusiasm has really shone through as she has mulched, weeded, watered and pruned her way all around London! Anyone she meets is left in no doubt as to the importance of urban trees for biodiversity and sustainability and she inspires the same passion in others. Add this to her reliability and you have a first rate volunteer”.
Stave Hill Ecological Park were keen to back up The Orchard Project’s nomination. Site manager, Rebeka Clarke added, “It’s been a huge advantage having Lesley involved with our orchard project. She is very knowledgeable, and is great at sharing her skills and knowledge. Lesley has given us so much of her time, energy and enthusiasm – it’s been really great seeing the other volunteers learn new skills and be inspired by Lesley’s positive attitude!”.
Well done Lesley! London is lucky to have you.
