“As you will know, the project is funded by £50,000 raised within the community via small grants, donations and fund-raising activities and this is matched £ for £ by Stockport Council from commuted sums to reach our £100,000 project value.  The largest contributions are from local events by Friends of the Park and grants / donations from Stockport Homes, The Marple Website, Forever Manchester and Marple Area Committee, so it is very much a locally funded project with Marple people doing it for themselves.

“Friends of the Park have had fantastic support from local people, local organisations, local shops and businesses and local schools to achieve this success. That very much includes Marple Area Committee members past and present too.

“So thank you all for your excellent support of Friends of the Park and Marple Skatepark. We hope you will continue to to help us in any way you can to ensure Memorial Park remains a fantastic place in the heart of the Marple Community for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.”

The orchard, planned for installation by Incredible Edible in Marple Rec off Arkwright Road, has had to be put on hold to allow for extra residents’ consultation and possible resiting.  We are sorry this had to happen and will keep you informed on progress.