New volunteers dig in to help The Hub tree planting project

VISITORS to The Hub, in Barnard Castle, will soon have a new area to explore thanks to the work of volunteers and a tree-planting group.
The pond at the back of complex has long been inaccessible because it was overgrown and prone to flooding as much of the area is below the water table.
But now work is underway to re-open the area and new trees have been planted by volunteers and arbor enthusiast group Trees for Teesdale.
Laura Carrick, deputy manager at The Hub, said: “It is very important, we have lovely grounds and this will help reinstate a path so that it gives another area that people can access.
“We had started work on the path and the trees will help line the path.”
Allan Rayner, of Trees for Teesdale, said nine alders were planted along the wettest part of the path to absorb water and grow faster. rowan trees were also planted because their berries will attract wild birds.
The trees are expected to mature in about 20 years, but will stand for centuries to come. Mrs Carrick said: “It will leave such a legacy for the area. Once they are in, they are in for generations to come.”
New volunteers Ken Phillips and Wendy Withers helped Hub stalwart Graham Moore plant the trees.
Both decided to help out after reading about a call for volunteers. A former farmer, Mr Phillips’ knowledge will be very useful to the Hub.
Mrs Carrick said: “Ken started two years ago as a volunteer driver but after reading about the need for volunteers he decided this would be a good opportunity for him.”
Ms Withers’ passion for gardening will also be very helpful.
Mrs Carrick said more volunteers were needed to help with jobs like running the reception because of the extended opening hours and doing doing housework in the residential section, which becomes very busy in the summer.
For more information contact The Hub on 01833 690150.