Tree giveaway as forest project marks five years

The Forest for Cornwall is marking its fifth year, with about 1.6 million trees planted so far

A council is giving away free trees to celebrate the fifth anniversary of a project to boost canopy coverage.

The Forest for Cornwall project began in December 2019 when volunteers, schoolchildren and councillors planted saplings at Tincombe Park in Saltash.

The celebration during National Tree Week will take place in the same park from 10:00 to 13:00 GMT - activities include the tree giveaway, a willow weaving workshop, hedgerow planting and a walk around the Tincombe Tree Trail.

Cornwall Council said about 1.6 million trees had so far been planted as part of the project with further planting planned across more than 500 hectares.

Councillor Loic Rich, portfolio holder for environment and climate change, said: "Planting a tree helps create green corridors that provide homes for birds, insects and animals, they're brilliant for our health and help reduce traffic noise and air pollution, as well as helping to prevent flooding and soil erosion."

He gave a "huge thank you" to those who helped the planting process, whether in their garden, a community space, a farm, school or business.