A SURPLUS fruit exchange project in Stroud is celebrating its first six months in action, with organisers thanking the community for its ongoing support.
The Fruit Exchange scheme was set up by Down to Earth in July 2015 with the aim of encouraging people to donate their unwanted garden fruit to local businesses in return for drinks vouchers.
The community-led project sought to connect food outlets with those with surplus produce, as well as encourage the sale of locally grown produce across the Five Valleys.
Alexandra Sore, coordinator of The Fruit Exchange said the scheme had been a ‘huge success’ since its formation, with kilos of fruit destined for waste redirected on to local businesses.
“It’s been hectic and busy but we’re really pleased with how well it went,” she said.
“We’ve had approximately 70 exchanges from more than 30 donors, with quantities varying from an ice cream container of berries to many kilos of apples.
“We’ve had blackcurrants, figs, grapes, pears, plums, rhubarb and huge amounts of apples. And some of the more interesting fruit donated included gooseberries, greengages, quinces and redcurrants.
“We are so proud of seeing much waste we prevented and all that gorgeous local, home-grown, fresh fruit being used up.”
Alex paid tribute to all those who had taken part in the scheme over the past few months.
“The Fruit Exchange relies on people caring about food not going to waste and wanting to do something about it,” she said.
“Without the donors and volunteers who took the time to pick their fruit and take it somewhere, and the businesses who were willing to use it, we wouldn’t have a project in the first place.”
She added that nine local businesses took part in the scheme, including Asparagasm, The Weighbridge Inn and Wild Garlic Restaurant from Nailsworth.
Participants from Stroud included the Bisley House and the Star Anise Arts Café, while The Old Lodge and Munchinhampton from Minchinhampton also played their part.
Looking ahead into 2016, the project is looking to expand to cover the whole of Gloucestershire and to include other produce such as vegetables and nuts.
It is also applying for grants and looking for other funding possibilities to pay for the cost of running and promoting the scheme.
If you are a business in Gloucestershire interested in participating, or would like to volunteer, email Alexandra Sore at fruitexchange@downtoearthstroud.co.uk or call 07923 244928.
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