Rooting for Andover and TVBC join forces to grow greener, more connected communities
Local volunteers and residents are coming together to transform Andover’s green spaces, thanks to the ongoing work of Rooting for Andover and support from Test Valley Borough Council’s community team.
Following the success of their first ever Apple Day in late August, Rooting for Andover is inviting even more people to get involved in upcoming community growing events. The group’s Apple Day brought together 42 residents and orchard groups from across the borough to press apples, share skills, and celebrate the harvest. The event was self-funded by Rooting for Andover, and grew from a conversation with the Anna Fields Community Orchard about how to make better use of the site’s apple trees.
As the fruit harvesting season begins to wind down, Rooting for Andover is now turning its attention to their Halloween event at the end of October. They’re also looking ahead to next year, with hopes to make Apple Day even bigger and better.
Rooting for Andover is working closely with TVBC’s community engagement and green space officers on a new initiative to map all community growing spaces across the borough. This work is helping to highlight local gardens, orchards, and allotments - making them easier to find, better supported, and more accessible for everyone. TVBC’s support has gone beyond advice and coordination. Through funding and practical support, the council and Rooting for Andover have worked together to deliver a range of practical improvements over recent years. Romans ward councillors recently awarded a £1,000 Councillor Community Grant to help the group deliver their summer-long “grow and eat” project for under 11s, where children planted strawberries and peas across multiple sessions and learned about where their food comes from.
Councillor Jason Sangster, who endorsed the councillor community grant, said: “It’s brilliant to see how small investments can make a big difference. These projects are helping children and families connect with nature, learn new skills, and feel part of their community. I’m proud to support Rooting for Andover and the wider work of TVBC in making this happen.”
Councillor Kirsty North, who has supported Rooting for Andover’s work throughout the year, said; “It’s fantastic to see how Rooting for Andover continues to bring people together through growing and green spaces. Apple Day was a brilliant example of community energy in action, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the event grows next year.”
Michael Parker from Rooting for Andover added: “Apple Day showed just how much enthusiasm there is for local growing. We’re excited to keep this momentum going, and we’d love to see even more people join us at future events or help us put their local growing space on the map.”
Rooting for Andover has more community events planned in the coming months, offering opportunities for residents of all ages to learn new skills, meet neighbours, and make a difference. Whether you’re a keen gardener, a family looking for a fun day out, or someone who wants to support your local area, there’s something for everyone.
You can find the latest updates and event details on Rooting for Andover’s website: rootingforandover.org.uk or on their Facebook page.
If you know of a community garden, orchard, or growing space that should be added to the borough-wide map, please get in touch with the community and leisure team at: community&leisure@testvalley.gov.uk