A farmer’s vision for a community orchard is finally becoming a reality.

Oliver Doubleday planted 216 mixed fruit trees on land next to Rodmersham Primary School in 2013.

It’s made up of 65 apple, 50 pear, 20 damson and plum, seven quince, 56 cherry, 11 hazel and cobnut, four walnut, two chestnut and one mulberry tree all of which are now starting to grow.

He created it so the area can be used by pupils and those living in the village.

Mr Doubleday said: “We planted this orchard in reaction to a suggestion from our MP, Gordon Henderson, that landowners should plant woods to commemorate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee.

“I thought that here in Kent, the home of fruit growing, the Garden of England, it would be fun to plant an orchard of fruit as an amenity for the community and as an educational resource for local schools.

“The trees have been grafted onto different root stocks showing how a farmer can control the size of his trees.”

Mr Henderson added: “I am really grateful that Oliver stepped up to the plate so enthusiastically.

“I think once the orchard is more mature, it will provide many of our youngsters not only with a deeper knowledge of the importance of fruit growing to our local economy but also hours of enjoyment.”