the great-granddaughter of the founder of the Bramley apple has spoken of her pride that her forebear’s tree has been chosen as one of 70 important ancient trees dedicated to the Queen as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy to mark the Platinum Jubilee.

The original Bramley apple tree in Southwell in Nottinghamshire is now over 200 years old.

Celia Steven, who founded a community orchard in her village, said: ‘As Henry Merryweathers’ great-granddaughter, I think he would have been so pleased to know that the tree he recognised, introduced commercially and called the ‘King of Covent Garden’ had been honoured in such a way. It is still a well-loved apple much used here in the west, as well as countrywide as it can be used in so many different ways and that includes cider!’