Kent’s East Malling Trust acquires one of world’s largest fruit tree collections
East Malling Trust has purchased the National Fruit Collection at Brogdale Farm, Kent – one of the largest of its kind in the world.
The collection is home to more than 4,000 different heritage fruit varieties, including apples, pears, cherries, plums and nuts.
Curated by the University of Reading on behalf of DEFRA and managed by the Brogdale Collections charity, the 150-acre farm has become a hub for fruit enthusiasts, researchers and international visitors.
It now belongs to the East Malling Trust, which maintains a close working relationship with local horticultural research centre NIAB East Malling.
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Dr Oliver Doubleday, chairman of the board at East Malling Trust, said: “We’re delighted to announce the acquisition of Brogdale Farm and we look forward to playing our part in maintaining the home of this nationally important collection, which fits perfectly with our charitable objectives.
“The move is consistent with our mission to advance scientific knowledge and innovation in horticulture, fits with our property portfolio, and utilises our existing estate management skills.
“We’re committed to preserving and enhancing the unique heritage of Brogdale Farm and its collection, and improving the visitor experience.
“We also have an existing gene bank within the East Malling estate, and there’s the potential for collaboration to drive forward future research that will benefit the fruit industry and society as a whole.”
As well as the Brogdale Collections – which hosts guided tours, delivers courses, organises events and arranges outreach activities – the site is home to 23 businesses, including a café and brewery.
Alan Roe, chair of Brogdale Collections, added: “We’ve been extremely fortunate to have had such good relations with the owners of Brogdale Farm, who have been totally supportive of the charity and its ambitions.
“We believe the new owners will continue such a close relationship and share our values, and we’re pleased the ownership of Brogdale will be in such good hands.
“We look forward to working with The East Malling Trust to ensure the continued importance of the National Fruit Collection, all the orchards at Brogdale and their rich heritage.”
