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PUPILS Raeesah, nine, Safiyya, nine and Zaninab, 11, of Seymour Park Primary School enjoy the tree planting day
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Pupils dig deep

TRAFFORD schoolchildren have been out on the streets planting hundreds of trees.

They’ve joined forces with with Manchester environmental initiative Red Rose Forest to take on an urban greening challenge.

Children from Seymour Park Primary School and Old Trafford Community School tested their green fingers as they got to work planting over 100 new bedding plants and herbs on the streets of Old Trafford. The activity was devised to compliment the planting of over 60 new ornamental trees by Red Rose Forest and Groundwork Manchester.

The children planted flowers around the base of the new trees on Alphonsus and Carlton Street.

The aim is to add colour and interest to the streets and help to encourage a variety of birds, small mammals and insects to the area by providing vital habitats, as well as involve the community in protecting and promoting biodiversity in the area.

Jackie Hanrahan, a teacher at Seymour Park, said: "We are delighted to be involved in this planning event. It is an excellent opportunity for the children to learn about the importance of urban trees and greenery."

Kevin Wigley of Red Rose Forest said: "Trees and greenery are so important to urban areas as locally they can do their bit for helping to improve air quality, reduce temperatures on hot summer days, provide vital habitats for wildlife, and increase the sense of local pride.

"In addition this type of activity is a great way to help children explore and get involved in the environment on their doorsteps."