VOLUNTEERS bought the community together by planting trees.

As part of National Tree Planting Week, Braintree Council organised a planting weekend.

It was supported by the Friends of Hoppit Mead Local Nature Reserve and Halstead Conservation Group.

The First Braintree Beavers worked together to plant three cut leaf alder trees by the newly installed otter sculpture at Marshalls Park in Braintree.

Halstead Conservation Group volunteers were joined by a teacher and student from Ramsey Academy at The Woodland in Halstead, who planted three River Birch and 100 bare root native hedging plants.

Assistant Beaver Leader, Wendy Turner, said: “It was great to see the beavers enjoying themselves whilst learning all about the outside environment and how they can protect it.

"It’s nice to know that in years to come, the boys and girls can show their own children the trees they planted and encourage them to benefit the wider community like they did.”

Wendy Schmitt, councillor responsible for Environment, added: “We love to see local people come out and participate in genuine action to maintain our district’s green spaces, and are grateful to our willing volunteers who readily offer their free time.

"These tree planting activities are great examples of how people come together and take a real interest in caring for their local areas, and getting school pupils and local clubs involved is a fantastic way of introducing them to conservation and our district’s natural environment.”

To get involved in volunteering email amatu@braintree.gov.uk.