Community groups transform local neighbourhoods with trees
Community Groups have transformed local spaces for people and wildlife by planting native trees, thanks to the Woodland Trust and the TK Maxx stores.
The groups successfully applied to be one of the first in the country to receive upto 420 free trees which were planted locally, as part of the charity's More Trees, More Good campaign. This campaign aims to plant 20 million trees every year for the next 50 years.
Essential funding has been provided by brands-for-less retailer, TK Maxx, which wants to help communities near to all of its 237 UK stores create their own green spaces. Customers can also continue to raise money for the Woodland Trust as TK Maxx will donate 1p to the charity for every customer who declines a free carrier bag with their purchase.
Since 2008 TK Maxx has donated over £700,000 to the Woodland Trust and created over 30 acres of woodland area.
Doug Mizzi, Managing Director TK Maxx UK and Ireland said: "We are delighted to be working with the Woodland Trust to create a new community woodland. Our aim is to help build a real future for children, so we hope that families in the area will enjoy planting the saplings and then watching them grow into new native woodland for everyone to enjoy."
The Woodland Trust is asking other groups to follow these groups' example and help improve their local neighbourhood with native trees by registering to receive a free community tree pack which can be planted next spring or autumn.
More than 500 registrations were received for community tree packs this autumn and, as a result, more than 100,000 trees will be planted.
Victoria Hodson from the Woodland Trust said: "Compared with the rest of Europe, we have very little tree cover. However, by working with local TK Maxx stores and their communities we can make a real and lasting difference.
Copses of trees, hedges and small woods all make a positive impact on how local spaces look, and how local people feel about where they live and work. Tree planting is an activity that everyone can get involved in and enjoy.
Communities can register now for a free tree pack online at www.MoreTreesMoreGood.org.uk"