Apple tree help please

My young apple tree has been fooled by the weather and has started to put out its leaves. I have covered it in fleece as we have had a couple of frosts. Is this the right thing to do or will it be OK without? I haven't been here at this time of year since it was planted so I don't know how it normally copes.

Looking at the forecast there is a risk of frosts to come this week but also some heavy rain. If the tree needs to have a fleece cover can I leave it on in the rain or do I need to take it off and put it back on after the rain?

It'll be fine without protection. My apple trees were planted here in North Cumbria thirty five years ago and have never failed to produce despite some dreadfully cold Cumbrian springs