FIFTY new trees were recently planted at Tramlines and Clapps Wood by volunteers from the Okement Rivers Improvement Group (ORIG) and Sticklepath and Okehampton Conservation Volunteers (STOC) as part of the 'Big Tree Plant'.

The trees were provided by British Trust of Conservation Volunteers (BTCV). The 'Big Tree Plant' is the first government tree planting campaign since the 1970s and at its heart is the aim to increase the amount of trees in and around towns and cities,  and to engage the local community in the well-being of those areas for the future.

Neil Gilmour of ORIG and STOC said he was excited about the project and was keen to get involved.  

'Conservation work undertaken by STOC and ORIG has been ongoing for many years and without the dedication shown by local volunteers, the towns' environment, especially the rivers, and areas like the outdoor classroom at the primary school, would be much poorer ­— the contribution of these groups is vital,' he said.

David Rickwood of the Woodland Trust said he was pleased to work with local volunteer groups and happy to provide an area where native trees could be planted.

'The small meadow beyond Pigs' Bridge in Simmons Park provides an ideal place for more trees as it sits alongside the ancient oak woodland overlooking the park.  

'Okehampton is blessed given its position close to the moor, and the town's landscape has benefitted greatly by visionaries like Sydney Simmons.

'Such a legacy sets a precedent for the future of the town and the recent acquisition and management of sites like Clapps Wood continues this important tradition — those involved are to be congratulated,' he said.

For more information visit thebigtreeplant.direct.gov.uk or The Woodland Trust who can provide free tree planting packs. For more information see http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk">www.woodlandtrust.org.uk