HUNDREDS of villagers came together to plant more than 400 trees to help tackle climate change.
About 200 people of all ages in Tollesbury took part in the tree planting at the weekend, turning up with their own wheelbarrows, spades and watering cans.
Trees were planted along the edge of the village cemetery and on the recreation ground.
They included oak, crab apple, dog rose, hawthorn and elder trees which were donated by The Woodland Trust as part of the Queen's Green Canopy.
The project encourages people across the UK to plant a tree for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee this year.
Children were invited to put their names on their trees so they can watch them grow over the coming years.
The weekend’s tree-planting initiative was organised by the Tollesbury Climate Partnership (TCP) which was set up by residents last year to reduce the impact of climate change.
The organisation has six active groups working to protect the environment, reduce energy and promote sustainable food and transport in the area.
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Projects so far have included energy advice cafes, seasonal food recipes and a seed swap hut.
The saplings will be looked after over the years by TCP volunteers to make sure they thrive.
Schools, community groups and others can order more free trees in October to mark the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
Angela Cole, member of the TCP, said: “It’s been fantastic seeing so many grandparents, parents and children out planting trees in the sunshine.
“We thought tree-planting would be a brilliant way to bring the whole community together working for the environment, which is what our project is all about.
“Planting young trees and improving hedges around the village will help the planet by soaking up carbon, while at the same time helping local wildlife. TCP is organising initiatives like these to make our village a healthier and lovelier place to be.”
Next month the partnership is hosting a study day on the saltmarshes for young people to learn about how seagrass and marshlands help reduce climate change.
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