RESIDENTS of Horsley joined forces to mark National Tree Week by planting native trees in the village.

Volunteers and friends of The Hearth charity and arts centre in the village planted acers, rowan, bird cherry, silver birch and crab apple on a specially designed site at the rear of The Hearth.

They were assisted by Tom Martin of Plants that Grow at Tom and Joe’s, in Wylam, and corporate volunteers from companies including Northumbrian Water, Interserve, and Doosan.

The focus of the planting was to get young people involved in taking care of the environment by giving them a hands on experience.

Youngsters got stuck in, working in teams to plant trees. Children also brought along stories, poems, and pictures about the ‘magic of trees’ and the benefits they brought to the planet.

Pam Hornor, trustee at The Hearth, said: “The Hearth is delighted to have had this opportunity to do their bit to help reduce UK carbon emissions.

“We are passionate about improving our community by planting trees in the village. In years to come the trees we plant now will be standing proud – what a beautiful thought!

“We are so grateful to everyone involved, particularly the Tree Council Charity for the funding contribution for this initiative.”