A tree and landscaping firm has taken on the spirit of Christmas by donating trees to towns and villages in Breckland. Ashley Barnes of Dereham-based Norfolk Trees and Landscaping has donated a number of beech trees, each with a spiral guard and stake, to Breckland Council who will give them out to tree wardens in the district.

A tree and landscaping firm has taken on the spirit of Christmas by donating trees to towns and villages in Breckland.

Ashley Barnes of Dereham-based Norfolk Trees and Landscaping has donated a number of beech trees, each with a spiral guard and stake, to Breckland Council who will give them out to tree wardens in the district.

All are all aged between one and two years old and will be put into the ground this winter.

Mr Barnes, who is also a tree warden, was concerned about the lack of trees being replaced following felling.

He said: “All I'm doing is helping to maintain our trees for future generations because if we don't do it, they may not be there in the future. I think it's good to give back to the community in whatever aspect you can.”

Richard Fisher, assistant tree and countryside officer has sent a letter to all parish tree wardens informing them of the tree offer.

He said; "Trees are important because they help to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere - that's why it is important to replace trees and plant new ones."

The Beech Trees have been temporarily planted at Breckland Council offices awaiting collection by the tree wardens.

Councillor Ann Steward, Breckland Council's executive member for the environment, said: "Climate change is the most critical challenge facing everyone today, but the little things we do can make a big difference and this includes planting trees.