Charity calls for winter hedge-planting volunteers

CPRE Shropshire wants volunteers to help plant more than 4km of hedges this winter

A countryside charity is calling for people to help it plant hedgerows as part of a project aiming to care for the rural environment.

CPRE Shropshire is now in the fifth year of its Hedgerow Heroes scheme.

The organisation is aiming to plant more than 4km (2.5 miles) of new native hedgerow in the county this winter.

As well as providing shelter for livestock and helping with flooding issues, the charity said hedgerows could provide wildlife corridors and a "bounty of blossom, berries and nuts" for insects, birds and small mammals.

The charity is seeking volunteers to help plant at a number of sites around Shropshire between early December and late February.

"Hedge planting is a really great activity to do in the winter time," said project manager Sarah Jameson.

Hedgerows provide wildlife corridors as well as food for insects, birds and small mammals, accordnig to charity bosses

"It gets you out into the countryside doing something helpful for nature and meeting like-minded people."

She added: "Hot drinks and cake are also arranged!"

Prospective volunteers can sign up on CPRE Shropshire's website.

People who have not planted a tree or a hedge before are welcome - with help on hand and tools provided.

Children are welcome to attend with an adult, and people can also bring their own garden spades if they prefer.