TELEVISION star and former Evesham High School student Alistair McGowan is backing a campaign to preserve the landscape of the Vale of Evesham.

The Vale Landscape Heritage Trust aims to protect locally distinctive features, such as old orchards and meadows, keeping them wildlife friendly.

Alistair visited the community orchard on Peewit Road on Tuesday to see some of the work undertaken by volunteers.

The award-winning comedian said he was determined to help the area in which he was brought up.

"This is part of what Evesham is all about and it is very important to keep in touch with the past," he said."

So many of the orchards have been reduced over the years and it would be a great shame if more went."

The two-acre orchard, owned by church authorities, is staffed by a team of around 20 volunteers.

The charity would be interested to hear from anyone willing to support their work.

Contact trustee Colin Grove on 01386 49457.