THE clock is ticking for Somerset communities to take advantage of the Woodland Trust’s offer to plant free trees, and help the charity hit its milestone of 16 million trees planted.

Woodland Trust's latest ‘no catch scheme’ is offering free trees to schools, sports clubs, and communities in the southwest in the hope of saving the planet.

In March 2024, 10,545 trees were delivered to communities and schools in Somerset as part of the Woodland Trust’s initiative to tackle the climate and nature crisis.

School kids planting the trees donated by the Woodland Trust. (Image: Contributed)

The Trust is hoping to see changes in the next few years, with millions more trees needed to reach the UK’s 2050 carbon net-zero targets.

Having more trees planted helps boost natural habitats, combat flooding, provide shelter and reduce pollution. Woodland Trust senior project lead Steve Shill said time is running out to get involved.

Steve said: “Planting trees is such a simple action, but the collective impact can make a huge difference to people and the plant.”

“Every school should have trees, but if you don’t have a space to plant, don’t worry – you can still get involved in planting. Why not partner with a local community group or council to plant trees in a public place?”

Every year the Woodland Trust delivers thousands of free trees twice a year for planting in Spring and Autumn. The Trust’s free packs have been generously funded by lead partners Sainsbury’s, Lloyds Bank, OVO, Bank of Scotland and Sofology.

Steve added: "As ever, the support and generosity of our founders is crucial; we simply couldn't do this without them.