Over 700 trees planted in four days by the community
Haris, aged 6, and Iris, aged 7, at Bullough Park
This year’s National Tree Week (NTW) was celebrated by dedicated volunteers from across Hyndburn by helping to plant 720 trees at designated sites in Accrington and Oswaldtwistle.
A series of four community tree planting sessions were held from Sunday 26th to Wednesday 29th November, facilitated by the PROSPECTS Foundation, Hyndburn’s community-owned environmental charity.
In honour of the 50th anniversary of the famous ‘Plant a Tree in 73’ campaign, this year’s NTW introduced the ‘Grow a tree in 23’ initiative. Budding young tree planters received certificates for their involvement in this year’s campaign.
18 members of the local community planted the trees at well-known local greenspaces including Bullough Park, Woodnook Vale Local Nature Reserve, Peel Park & the Coppice Local Nature Reserve and Harvey Street in Oswaldtwistle. A huge variety of tree species were planted such as English Oak, Hazel, Hawthorn and Spindle.
The trees planted in these sessions contribute to the ambitious targets set for the TreeACTION programme, which has been established as part of Hyndburn Borough Council’s response to the Climate Emergency.
Councillor Zak Khan, Portfolio Holder for Sustainability, said:
“What a great achievement from everyone involved. This fantastic initiative means not only have people got involved, enjoyed the outdoors and taken part in a community project – they have contributed to something which has lasting impact.
“One of the priorities for Hyndburn Borough Council is making sure we plan ahead for future generations, sustainability and nurturing our local environment is at the core of this. I would like to thank everyone involved and I look forward to hearing about future upcoming projects that PROSPECTS undertake in partnership with the council and community.”
This new partnership with the PROSPECTS Foundation will see new woodland areas created across Hyndburn through regular planting sessions for schools and members of the community over three years, with at least 15,000 trees planted by spring 2026.
Local residents are warmly invited to take part in this vital work, contributing not only to the initial planting process but also to the ongoing care as these trees flourish.
More tree planting sessions are planned for December and everyone is invited to get involved. No experience is necessary, just warm clothes and suitable footwear. All ages and abilities are welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Wednesday 6th December, Bullough Park 10am-1pm
Monday 11th December, Bullough Park (Tree Maintenance) 11am-12 noon
Tuesday 12th December, Harvey Street in Oswaldtwistle 10am-1pm
In the years to come, the trees planted will play a vital role in supporting local wildlife, mitigating climate change, and enhancing air quality in the borough. If you would like to help with future tree planting activities or get involved further, please contact the PROSPECTS Foundation via 01254-230348 or info@prospectsfoundation.org.uk