TREES have been planted by councillors in Dinton Pastures in a bid to carbon-offset the borough.

Mayor for the Wokingham borough Bill Soane and councillor Greg Murray, executive member for climate emergency, helped plant 20 Silver Birch trees on the old Golf Club grounds on the country park in Hurst.

The trees, supplied by Squires Garden Centre, were planted in a bid to increase the capacity for carbon offsetting, 'greening up' the borough, and boosting biodiversity.

Following the visit, Wokingham Borough Council committed to planting a quarter of a million trees over the next five years, as a part of the council's Climate Emergency Action Plan - of which was adopted by the Wokingham Council last month.

ALSO READ: Ascot Racecourse apologise after residents woken up by automatic alarm system

Councillor Soane said: “It was a fantastic sunny morning to get out and enjoy one of the destination countryside parks in our borough for this important initiative.

"Our team at Dinton, joined by staff from Squire’s, showed the type of joint effort we need to ensure our borough continues to thrive."

The garden centre funded the tree planting by donating five pence of every plant sold in their Wokingham store to the council, in the form of trees.

Silver Birches were the planting tree of choice, as they are native tree, therefore providing greater benefits for the local wildlife.

ALSO READ: Bracknell's Town Square hosts filming location for ITV drama Unforgotten

Councillor Gregor Murray, executive member for climate emergency, said: “Squire’s should be applauded for giving something back to the local area and being climate conscious at the same time.

"While planting trees is a natural choice for a garden centre, tree planting is absolutely essential to carbon offsetting and reducing our carbon footprint as a borough.

"Partnering and working effectively with businesses is a key aspect of tackling climate change as we work to be a carbon neutral borough by 2030.

"Any organisations wanting to run similar schemes, whether in partnership with the council or not, are encouraged to do all they can to help."

Sarah Squire, chairman of Squire’s Garden Centre, added: "We have been working closely with local councils and community groups who have planted the young trees this February in numerous parks and green spaces, so that they can be enjoyed by everyone."