Mass tree-planting to 'capture tonnes of CO2'

The North East Community Forest has planted thousands of trees over the last year

Tonnes of carbon dioxide could be absorbed from the atmosphere after almost 300,000 trees were planted, an environmental group has said.

Over the last 12 months, an army of volunteers for the North East Community Forest also planted hedgerows in parts of Northumberland, Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland and rural County Durham.

The group said it estimated the trees would capture about 51,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere over 30 years.

More than 2,000 people took part in the scheme.

More than 2,000 volunteers helped plant the trees over the last year

The group's chairman, Ross Weddle, said: "We are absolutely committed to be bringing more greenery and woodland to our region.

"Woodlands and green spaces are the beating heart of so many of our communities."

Six local councils for the region were also involved in the scheme.

Juna Sathian, climate and transport representative for Newcastle City Council said: "The creation of these new woodlands is vital in our efforts to tackle climate change, enhance air quality, and create happier and healthier places to live, work, and visit."

She also urged landowners interested in planting trees to get in touch with the forest group.