MORE than 200 trees have been planted as part of the next stage of the Colchester Woodland Project.

The Colchester Council scheme will see 200,000 trees planted across the borough over the next five years in response to the authority's declaration of a climate emergency.

A handful of trees have been rooted at Chinnock Open Space, Highwoods, and two hundreds native saplings were planted as part of a new community woodland at Tile House Farm, Great Horkesley.

Further trees have also been planted at Westlands Country Park.

David King, councillor responsible for business and resources, said: "I’m thrilled to see the planting continue as part of the project, and that residents are showing up to help and give their support to this important cause.

“The woodland project is about more than just planting trees, though: it’s about establishing, preserving and maintaining all woodland habitats that help make our borough green, and we can all play our part in that.”

Further planting sessions take place at Hickory Avenue Open Space on Wednesday and at the High Woods Country Park Big Garden on Saturday.

Visit colchester.gov.uk/colchesterwoodlandproject.