VILLAGERS in Lothersdale enjoyed a planting session after receiving some free trees from the Woodland Trust.

The 105 trees, planted in the main recreational field, will create a new hedge line designed to attract new species of animals into the area.

Parish clerk Andrew Mallinson said: “This is part of the planned programme to enhance not just the play areas for the village but also to attract new species of animals for everyone to enjoy.”

Trees that were planted included hazel, blackthorn, crab-apple, dog rose and elder, which will give a variety of habitat and children from the local school will be able to watch as they mature.

Parish councillor Esther Barrows was delighted the trees had been awarded to Lothersdale.

She said: “Over the last few months we have had to remove a number of trees from the area due to health and safety reasons. To be here planting many more new trees creates a long lasting legacy for the village.”

The parish council has enlisted the help of a consultant to draw up a long-term plan for the village's woodland walk area, where further improvements are envisaged and hopefully further tree planting will take place.

Cllr Neil Wilson added: “We are very grateful to the Woodland Trust for awarding us these trees and they will be a great asset for the future.”