Free trees are being offered to towns and villages in South Cambridgeshire as part of the Six Free Trees campaign.

The campaign is now in its fifth year, and has seen more than 750 trees planted across South Cambs since it was launched in 2019.

Trees offered as part of the scheme will create habitats and food for wildlife, while also playing a crucial role in the battle against climate change.

The campaign is one of a range of initiatives by South Cambridgeshire District Council to support its ambitions to double nature and get the district to net zero by 2050.

Parish councils have until Friday, December 20 to apply for six free trees or one larger potted tree, which will be delivered to them in January 2025.

Trees can be chosen from a list of native varieties including field maple, alder, silver birch, hornbeam, hawthorn, beech, wild cherry, oak, rowan and crab apple.

Bio-based and compostable guards, stakes and ties will also be supplied, and free delivery to a chosen location is included. Trees may be planted on parish council or school land.

Cllr Bridget Smith, leader of South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: "Every tree planted is a step towards a greener future.

"Already, the Six Free Trees project has been a significant success, and we’re delighted to offer it again this year.

"Trees are one of our most simple yet powerful weapons in the fight against climate change and this initiative is a vital part of our mission to achieve net-zero emissions.

"It demonstrates how small, local efforts can lead to significant change for the greater good. We're helping cultivate a greener, more sustainable district.

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"Together, we can enhance our community's canopy, combat climate change, and take significant strides toward our net-zero goals, which reflects our commitment to a healthier environment and a brighter future for all."

A total of 146 trees were given to 46 parish councils last year as part of the district council's efforts to increase tree canopy cover.

The council's Tree Warden network is also supporting the scheme, and provide information on trees in the area and current tree issues.