A SCHEME to plant trees in Ribble Valley's 35 parishes in memory of the borough's First World War fallen is under way.

Oak trees have been planted in 15 parishes, six will be planted this month and plans are in the pipeline for the remainder.

The trees will bear plaques in memory of the hundreds of young Ribble Valley men who lost their lives during the Great War.

A dove tree was also planted in the grounds of Clitheroe Castle on August 4, marking 100 years since the outbreak of the war.

From 2014 until the 100th anniversary of the official ceasefire, or Armistice Day, on November 11, 2018, communities across the world will come together to remember those who lived, fought and died in the war.

Councillor Michael Ranson, who lost a great-uncle in the war, said: “We are all connected to the First World War, through our family history, the fallen in our local communities, or its long-term impact on society.

“I am honoured and humbled to be leading this tree-planting campaign to remember Ribble Valley’s fallen during my year as mayor.”

Ribble Valley Borough Council has been liaising with parish councils on appropriate sites for the trees.