Volunteers help plant new beetle-shaped woodland

During the event in Ipswich more than 18 different species of tree were planted

A new woodland highlighting the importance of stag beetles has been planted.

Green-fingered volunteers took part in a tree planting event in Bourne Park in Ipswich, including members of the Friends of Belstead Brook Park.

During the session they started work on the planting of 2,500 trees and shrubs which, once complete, will adopt the shape of a stag beetle when viewed from above.

Stag beetles are considered to be nationally scarce insects, but the Ipswich area holds a globally significant population, according to Ipswich Borough Council.

Once complete the forest will look like a stag beetle when viewed from the sky

The trees include a mix of more than 18 different species and were planted with recycled tree protectors and a layer of mulch to help them grow and to also reduce water loss.

Councillor Lucy Trenchard, the portfolio holder for parks and climate change at Ipswich Borough Council, said she was "delighted" with the efforts of those involved.

She also added she was "very proud" that Ipswich had achieved Tree City of the World status three years in a row, having last being given the award in March 2024.

Since first gaining the special recognition in 2021 the council, which already maintains 65,000 trees, has planted upwards of 11,000 trees in the area.

"We're look forward to continuing to plant more trees each year and to keep developing our green spaces and award-winning parks," said Trenchard.

The final planting session for the new woodland will take place on 22 February.