A TREE planting group from Thornbury has rooted its 100th tree.

To mark the occasion Thornbury Town Council’s volunteer tree strategy group met representatives from South Gloucestershire Council’s tree team and other volunteer groups, including Thornbury In Bloom, last Friday.

Group chairman and Thornbury tree warden, Judith Hurford, said: “Over the past six years we have been raising money to improve the variety and number of trees around Thornbury and thanks to donations from organisation and individuals we’ve managed to plant our 100th one today.”

Last season, they had reached a total of 87 trees so as part of National Tree Week from November 26 to December 4, they planted a further 12 cherry trees by the Bloor Homes development in Morton Way.

They planted their 100th – a Zelkova Carpinifolia – which is a slow-growing but long-lasting elm tree with an unusual goblet shape and attractive leaves.

Judith added: “It’s called a landmark tree because it has been planted in a prestigious position on the roundabout between Grovesend Road and Morton Way, where it can be appreciated.

“It’s a fitting position for a special tree. It will mature in the years to come and people will say ‘that’s a lovely tree’.

“It been a real team effort and fantastic to see so many people concerned about the ecology of Thornbury, my thanks to everyone.

“I am particularly grateful to the South Gloucestershire Tree Team for their support and enthusiasm in providing suitable sites for the planting.”

A volunteer involved in the project, Brett Harrison, said: “Tree planting is very important not just here but all over the country.

“So many are chopped down and their numbers are not maintained. They are a valuable resource especially in lowering air pollutants like carbon dioxide.”

To get involved with future planting contact Judith on judith@hurford.eu.