A group is asking for volunteers to help them plant hundreds of trees.

The group, called Trees for Wigton - a sister group of Wildlife for Wigton - is hoping to plant 500 trees along Speet Gill in Wigton.

Nicholas Robson, a leader in the group, explained what the work is being done for and why they are asking for help.

He said that they look after a section of about 150 metres along Speet Gill, and they are looking at putting the trees there to benefit the wildlife, which Nicholas said it would be fantastic for.

He also added that the trees would act as a significant force against the frequent floods that Wigton faces, something that affects the area regularly.

He added: "Whatever we can do to stop flooding will be a positive thing."

He said of the group: "We have about 30 people who have signed up to our mailing list, but that is not necessarily the amount of people who will turn up."

He explained that for a tree planting scheme of this particular scale, they would need roughly 10 to 20 people.

This is a rough rigure, but one that brings into perspective the scale of the task.

Nicholas said he thinks it will take three sessions to plant 500 trees.

Trees for Wigton set out an appeal for prospective volunteers to arrive on Saturday, January 29, from 10:00am to 1:00pm, at the planting site.

Access to the planting site is at the far end of Lowmoor Road at John and Dawn Kent's farm.

The group said to get there, head out of Wigton along Lowmoor Road. the farm is immediately after the Rugby Club and there is parking in the farmyard.

A spokesperson from the group added: "As always, please wear wellies, warm clothing and gardening/robust gloves.

"A hot drink and snack is a good idea.

"We can supply spades and hammers but please feel free to bring your own."

To enquire further, and to volunteer fr this tree planting session, send an email to weloveplanting@gmail.com.