RESIDENTS in Orwell have transformed an area of dense shrub and overgrown trees into a sanctuary for wildlife and leisure activities. They have spent the past 18 months working to create a green space that the community can share. Sue Miller, chairman of

RESIDENTS in Orwell have transformed an area of dense shrub and overgrown trees into a sanctuary for wildlife and leisure activities.

They have spent the past 18 months working to create a green space that the community can share.

Sue Miller, chairman of the Chapel Orchard Community Group, said: "Over the last two years, residents have helped greatly in creating this safe habitat for wildlife and open space for leisure.

"They have cleared the dense scrub, pruned the trees and created pathways as well as maintaining the old orchard."

South Cambridgeshire MP Andrew Lansley officially opened the orchard, in Town Green Road, where 160 villagers joined to celebrate.

Chapel Orchard has been leased to the Orwell Parish Council by South Cambridge District Council as a pilot scheme, that allows green spaces to be opened in rural communities.

The district council provided an initial £5,000 for funding the project, after the Local Heritage Initiative had awarded the scheme £25,000.

The green space includes newly constructed pathways, a broadwalk and bridges over a rediverted stream.

Mrs Miller added: "The newly restored and maintained orchard will even serve as an outdoor classroom for the village primary school's natural history lessons.

"They will be able to study the surrounding wildlife in a quiet and natural setting.