A VOLUNTEER group has been given 420 trees to plant in a park to support wildlife and improve green spaces.

The Friends of Roe Lee Park group successfully applied for the silver birch and Hazel saplings from the Queen's Commonwealth Canopy (QCC) initiative, which has given out 50,000 trees nationwide.

The group applied through the Woodland Trust and are set to plant the trees in the Dell area of the park.

Jason Walker, chairman of the friends group, said he was delighted to be given the trees.

He said: "We applied in the spring time and had to explain to the trust why we wanted the trees and how the area would benefit from them.

"We really believe these extra trees will create a beautiful haven for lots of different types of wildlife, particularly birds.

"These trees will be able to live and grow for many generations, there will be thousands of people who will walk by and admire them.

"They will arrive as saplings and we will plant them together, it's going to form quiet a spectacle when they are fully grown.

"I was pleased we were able to get so many."

The QCC is a network of forest conservation initiatives to mark the queens lifetime of service to the commonwealth.

It was set up to raise awareness of the value of established indigenous forests, saving them for future generations, as well as planting new forest.

Woodland Trust chief executive, Beccy Speight, said the trust was thrilled to receive so many applications.

She said: "It’s testament to the high regard in which people hold both Her Majesty and trees.

"We’ve loved hearing the reasons people want to be part of this project and are honoured to be playing our part in extending the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy.

"Trees do so much for us.

"They improve soil health and water quality, reduce carbon, slow the flow of flood water, trap pollutants, shelter livestock, provide a home for wildlife and a space for us to breathe and reflect.

"I hope those who will be planting them next week will enjoy watching them flourish as part of this wonderful legacy initiative."

Mr Walker said the trees are set to be delivered in November and planting will begin on Friday, November 30, at 10.30am.

Anyone who wishes to help plant a tree can do so by visiting the Friends of Roe Lee Park Facebook page.