Barnard Castle tree scheme takes root at last

A DALE tree-planting scheme has grown a new branch in Barnard Ca
Trees for Teesdale, a scheme modelled on the successful Trees for Cotherstone project which aims to plant new trees and replace others that have fallen, has two groups operating in Gainford and Mickleton.
Initial attempts to start an offshoot in Barnard Castle were a struggle, but now a burgeoning number of new volunteers has helped the scheme to take root.
Trees for Teesdale chairman Geoff King said: “The new group has seven or eight members. Trees for Teesdale has supplied the group with tools and materials, purchased in the main from a donation from the Campaign to Protect Rural England.”
The group had their first active session on Sunday, November 13, building two tree cages.
Mr King said: “More cages will be built in the next few weeks, with trees to be planted during December.”
This is the start of a project to plant 12 trees in cages to fill in gaps in an old hedgerow at Middle Farm, Stainton.
Anybody wishing to join the group, or who would like trees planted, can contact the group via the website treesforteesdale.org.uk.