If you are looking for something different this Chrismas why not gift a free tree and give back to the environment?
Northumberland County Council is once again inviting residents and community groups across the county to take part in its free tree scheme.
In a bid to help protect and enhance the natural environment the council is offering another 15,000 tree saplings this year to residents, schools, community groups, town and parish councils, charities, and businesses.
This initiative is part of the council's ongoing effort to make Northumberland a greener and cleaner place to live, work and visit.
Saplings can be ordered online at tree-scheme.northumberland.gov.uk
Applicants can choose from a variety of species. Schools, community groups, town and parish councils, and businesses can apply for packs of Hedge, Copse, and Native Harvest. For those with limited space, Box or Wild Privet will be available, for small gardens, Crab Apple or Holly are available, for medium gardens, Rowan or Silver Birch are available and for large gardens, English Oak or Wild Cherry are available.
Once ordered, applicants will receive confirmation and details of their collection point three weeks prior to the pick-up date, with collection locations spread across the county.
The trees provided are small cell-grown plants, UK-sourced, and come complete with a biodegradable shelter guard, cane, and detailed planting and aftercare instructions.
Council leader Glen Sanderson commented: "As part of our Environmental Policy and our Climate Change Action Plan, we are dedicated to boosting our natural environment and reducing emissions.
“We hope that everyone will get involved in tree planting. This is a way that you can become involved to help us on our way to net zero and enhance the natural environment that we all treasure.
“Not only is this a great way to help the environment but it also brings communities together, provides educational opportunities, and improves the health and wellbeing of the people in our county."
In 2023, over 10,000 saplings were distributed to residents and community groups, contributing to improved air quality and further moving Northumberland towards net zero.
Any free tree saplings obtained through this scheme should only be planted on land you own unless you have an agreement with a private landowner.
The Council recognises the key role of the natural environment in tackling climate change. It is also leading the North East's nature recovery efforts, with plans to reduce flooding, enhance carbon sequestration through peatlands and woodlands, and promote biodiversity through wildlife conservation.