Greens donate apple tree to town’s Ukrainian Gratitude Orchard

Last year, Ukrainians living in Caerphilly planted trees at Morgan Jones Park to thank residents for their hospitality and support.

Since 2022, more than ten million Ukrainians have been forced out of their homes, with nearly seven million leaving their country following Russia’s invasion.

Roughly 6,000 of these people have moved to Wales, with around 120 now settled in Caerphilly County Borough.

The Ukrainian Gratitude Orchard was first planted at the park in January 2024, and expanded in March this year when more trees were planted.

The Wales Green Party has now donated another tree to the orchard.

Its leader, Anthony Slaughter, visited Caerphilly on Thursday May 22, to give an apple tree and show support for Ukrainian refugees.

The event, which was attended by party members and residents, was organised by Yuliia Bond, a Ukrainian who moved to Caerphilly three years ago.

She described the day as “special” and said: “Together with Anthony and others, we discussed the gaps in resettlement support and how the idea of a ‘Nation of Sanctuary’ can be made more real and inclusive – especially by giving Ukrainians, asylum seekers, and refugees a stronger voice in shaping the policies that affect their lives.”

Mr Slaughter said: “It was a pleasure to revisit the Ukrainian Gratitude Orchard in Caerphilly, with local members, to deliver a new apple tree on behalf of Welsh Greens.

“The orchard is an inspiring example of communities working together and supporting each other in the face of many challenges.

“We all need to work together with our neighbours to create a fairer society and a liveable planet.”

The tree is due to be planted in the autumn and is currently being cared for by a member of Climate Action Caerphilly, which played a key role in creating the orchard.

Based on information provided by the Green Party, an earlier version of this article incorrectly stated the tree had already been planted.