by Hayley Robinson

The sun came out just in time for an annual celebration.

Cherry Blossom Day at Lynsted’s Community Orchard provided families with a packed programme of entertainment on Sunday.

Day-old lambs settled in view as visitors enjoyed picnics among the traditional cherry trees while listening to Derek and his Jazz Friends.

The afternoon featured presentations from published poets including Maria C McCarthy, from Teynham, Mark Holihan, past winner of the Phelan Prize, and Barry Fentiman who is a member of the ME4 writers’ group in Medway.

Fruit husbandry expert Gavin Maclennan also shared his knowledge as he lead tours around the grounds.

The WI stall served tea and tasty treats such as fairy cakes, mini lemon drizzle loaves, banana cake and chocolate gateau.

For those who fancied something a little stronger, there was a bar stocked with wine, cider, beer and lager.

Children were invited to make badges and create paintings of blossom thanks to artists Sioux Peto and Colin Barnard, of Polka Dot art gallery, London Road, Teynham.

Prizes were awarded to Tiffany Haffenden, 13, Ruby Stoddard, seven, and Alice Milliner-Brook, four, for their efforts.

Games such as skittles and roll a two penny, a nature quiz and word search provided further entertainment for young people of all ages.

Farmer Pip Neaves, who owns the orchard, will open the gates for the public to ‘pick their own’ fruit on Saturday, July 6.

For more pictures, see the Sittingbourne News Extra, out tomorrow.