Macc Wild Network to be Co-op Cause in Macclesfield for second year running
There's good news for nature, as Macc Wild Network will continue to receive funding from the Co-op. We met them at their latest project in west Macclesfield.
By Alex Greensmith
Posted: Thursday, 07th March 2024 12:00 am
The Co-op and its members will help to support Macc Wild Network for the second year running as a Local Community Fund cause.
Macc Wildlife Network is a volunteer-powered environmental charity set up in 2021 to work with landowners, managers and communities in and around Macclesfield to create wildlife-rich spaces and nature corridors.
In November 2023 they received £3,068.45 from the Co-op's Local Community Fund.
Macc Wild Network had the biggest funding boost of any of the twelve local causes the Co-op and its members helped to raise money for last year.
They are the only Macclesfield cause supported by the Co-op last year to have been selected as a local cause again this year.
The Co-op and its members will raise money for eight Macclesfield causes in 2024, with Macc Wild Network being one of them.
Macclesfield Nub News met up with Macc Wild Network to discuss their latest project, and the continuation of the Co-op relationship.
Diana Moss and her partner Tony Hothersall are both Trustees of Macc Wild Network.
"It feels absolutely amazing to be a Co-op Cause for a second time," said Tony.
"We were delighted and I suppose it is a great boost to our work and confidence in what we are doing."
The Co-op funds will support the charity's ongoing projects to help rewild Macclesfield.
Co-op Member Pioneer Louise Little said: "We invite lots of different causes to apply, some are brand new, some are organisations that have been causes before. That shouldn't put people off.
"I know that the Macclesfield Co-op stores are particularly interested in the work Macc Wild Network is doing locally."
In February, their latest project began, in-part helped with Co-op cash.
"We've just planted 16 new fruit trees at The Pavilions, Macclesfield," shared Diana.
"We planted apple trees, damsons, and pears. Some of them may bear fruit this year.
"We also planted some yellow rattle wildflower seeds to keep the vigorous grasses down, and knapweed and birdsfoot trefoil. The yellow rattle should germinate this year and flower too. The others will germinate but likely not flower this year.
"We worked with ANSA who manage the site, and suggested it would be a good spot for an orchard.
"We will put up a permanent sign here to tell people about the orchard project, the benefits the trees give to wildlife, and Co-op involvement perhaps.
"It is good for animals as the fruit trees will provide blossom in the spring for pollinating insects. Then any fruits that are left in the autumn will be good for birds and insects.
"As fruit trees mature, they age quite quickly, which means they get good cracks in the bark which is really good for wildlife like birds and bugs.
"As the orchard develops, we will be involving the community a lot more in what is happening here. Hopefully we will host some pruning days - a nice community focus."
"I think it is beneficial that with Macc Wild Network, you can see the results so quickly," added Louise.
"We are continuing to look at different sites and develop new orchards," added Tony.
"That is the value of knowing we have this funding for next year so we can plan ahead," added Diana.
If you become a member of the Co-op, you will save money while shopping and help raise money for local causes within your community at the same time.
To find more bout Macc Wild Network, why not follow them on Instagram?
You can also join the Macc Wild Network Facebook group. They also have a website.
Macclesfield: You can read our article with Macc Wild Network Trust from this time last year by clicking HERE.
It costs just £1 to become a member of the Co-op, and you can start earning rewards and money for your community with your first shop. So why not join today VIA THIS LINK.
The Co-op are sponsors of Macclesfield Nub News.
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