Local Grocer Honoured At Tree Planting Ceremony At Bishops Cleeve Care Home

Greengrocer Joyce Arnold has been recognised for her outstanding work in the local community with a tree-planting ceremony at Bishops Cleeve Care Home.

Joyce was chosen for the honour by Grangefield Primary School student Izabella, who took part in a project where pupils named the new Home’s suites.

During her research into the village’s history to get inspiration for names, Izabella delved into the origins of the greengrocers on Church Road.

She discovered that Joyce had served the community for over 55 years, after beginning the business aged 29 with a fruit and vegetable cart.

Izabella took the story to the team at Bishops Cleeve Care Home, who decided to plant a pear tree in their gardens in Joyce’s honour.

Customer Relations Manager Tommy Fellows said that the Home and Izabella wanted to pay tribute to Joyce and her sons’ hard work during the pandemic.

Tommy said, “We were delighted to welcome Izabella to plant the new pear tree in Joyce’s honour.

“Bishops Cleeve has a rich, local history, and we want to celebrate its people and support the generations to ensure that the Home is part of the community around us.

“We loved making this happen for Izabella and Joyce, and our Residents will enjoy the pear tree for many years to come.”

For Joyce, it was lovely to receive such an honour from one of the village’s youngsters.

Joyce added: “The shop has changed dramatically, from a little stall and sunshade on the pavement to the shop you see today.

“I thank Izabella, who is just starting her life journey, for thinking of me.”

Meanwhile, Izabella said she enjoys visiting Joyce Arnold’s Greengrocers whenever she gets the chance.

Izabella added: “I love visiting the alluring shop with its high-quality fruit, vegetables and flowers.

“They always provide outstanding, friendly customer service, and the exquisite sights you are greeted with on entering the shop of shiny apples, mouth-watering mangos and heavenly vegetables is always a pleasure.

“I wanted to recognise Joyce and all she has done for the community of Bishops Cleeve.”