MORE trees are set to be sprouting up throughout Bridport thanks to a a local organisation.

Bridport Tree Planting has announced the arrival of 400 new saplings, which are due to be distributed to private gardens and public open spaces.

The group, part of West Dorset Friends of the Earth, formed last autumn. It aims to help double tree cover nationally to fight global warming and benefit nature. They have overseen the planting of 1,000 new trees in the town over the past year.

Joe Hackett, co-ordinator of Bridport Tree Planting, said: “These are all native species, crab apple , hawthorn, hazel, downy birch, silver birch, dogwood, dogrose, wild cherry, blackthorn, rowan, goat willow and a few others and we have another two hundred more saplings on the way, so are accepting orders now.

“Mass planting of trees by crowds of people, such as our planting of more than two hundred trees in an afternoon last December in Asker Meadows, are not possible during lock-down. But there is nothing to stop individuals asking for trees.

“We offer free tree guards, too, and hope to resume big-scale planting in the New Year. We have a promising partnership with Magna Housing and are looking at two new sites they own."

The group plants trees in an attempt to counteract the increase in greenhouse gas emissions, alongside aims to increase biodiversity and wildlife, provide shade and to protect against flooding.

Bridport Tree Planting is hoping to be able to hold a public event entitled 'More Trees Please', on Saturday, February 20 from 2pm to 4pm at Bridport United Church. Members will be giving away trees and hosting an art event amongst other activities.

To find out more or to get involved in the project email joe@thehacketts.uk