Volunteers wanted to plant 1,000 woodland trees

Volunteers are being sought to help plant trees at a new community woodland in Devon.

Torridge District Council said it teamed up with Devon County Council and Parklife South West CIC to create the site at Gatefield amenity grassland on Londonderry Estate in Bideford.

Councillor Peter Hames, lead member for climate change, said: "This exciting new scheme will help people connect with nature, improve the scenery and provide important habitats and food sources for wildlife."

The council said volunteers were needed on Saturday and Wednesday to plant 1,000 trees.

The woodland is being funded through the forestry commission's local authority treescapes project.

A large open space was incorporated into the final design following a public consultation, the council added.

"It is hoped that the project will create a better space for wildlife and people," it said.

Tree species being planted include oak, beech, field maple, wild cherry, hawthorn, hazel, dogwood, dog rose and spindle.

Mr Hames added: "It would be great if we could get as many people from the community involved as possible."

Councillor Andrea Davis, DCC deputy leader and cabinet member for climate change and environment, said the project would help "tackle carbon emissions and benefit local wildlife".

Ms Davis added: "I hope plenty of people come forward to lend a hand."

The tree planting events will take place between 10:00 and 15:00 GMT.

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