The last remaining orchard owned by Croydon Council is to be restored to its former glory thanks to a government grant aimed at improving the countryside.

The Georgian orchard, dating to about 1820, takes up part of 216 acres of ground at the grade II listed mansion at Heathfield.

Replanting of the orchard with old English apple trees is due to begin in the spring and includes improvements to the orchard entrance with the reinstatement of the historic railings and gates.