THE Woodland Trust is putting more than half a million trees up for grabs to be planted at the end of this year.

Schools and community groups can apply now for free trees — in different sizes and themes — to make their schools, neighbourhoods and communities greener; they will receive them in November.

Community groups such as parish councils, sports clubs, Brownies, Scouts and many more can apply for a small pack (30 trees), medium pack (105 trees) or a large pack (420 trees). Schools are automatically eligible for free packs of 30 trees, in either a 'hedge' or 'copse' theme, but can apply to be considered for the medium and large packs if they wish.

Schools and groups applying for the medium and large tree packs can choose from six themes — trees ideal for year-round colour, wild harvest, wildlife, wetland, working wood and wild wood.

Beverley Gormley, the trust's tree packs project manager, said: 'Planting trees is a simple yet effective way to improve our environment, and with these free tree packs it couldn't be easier to do. It's also the perfect way to get communities doing something meaningful together for their local area which will bring benefits for years to come. We hope as many people as possible will snap up these tree packs before they run out!'

The deadline for applications is September 4. To apply for a free pack, visit http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/freetrees">www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/freetrees