The Rotary Tree Challenge is a nation-wide challenge encouraging each Rotary member to plant at least one tree to help save the environment in time for this year’s Earth Day on 22 April 2018.  With over 47,000 members in Great Britain and Ireland, the potential number of trees planted would be equivalent to a forest the size of one hundred football pitches!

To initiate the challenge, 6 trees were planted during a joint ceremony on Thursday 22 March 2018 as part of a wider planting programme in and around Tiverton.  The ceremony took place along the old railway line near Manley Bridge.  In attendance were Rotary members Sue Godfrey (organiser), Tricia Collier and Les Rendell along with the Council’s Leader Clive Eginton,  Darren Beer and Mick Jelliman  from the Grounds Maintenance team.

Further potential sites are being planned and agreed by the Council to enhance existing woodland and open spaces, including Elmore Football Club, Market Walk, West Exe and along the BMX track.

The tree saplings include a mixture of species, including beech, oak and hornbeam  and were supplied by the I Dig Trees planting scheme, (a collaboration between OVO Energy and The Conservation Volunteers).  Once all 50 of the trees have been planted, the Council will maintain and accept responsibility for them throughout their life.

Rotary member and organiser Sue Godfrey said: “We are delighted that Mid Devon District Council welcomed the offer of trees by the Rotary Club of Tiverton. We all need to get involved in caring for our environment. This not only benefits wildlife but also enhances the quality of life for all of us in the Tiverton area.’”.

Clive Eginton said: “I’d like to thank the Rotary Club of Tiverton for this magnanimous gesture; it really is fantastic that they’ve donated 50 trees of 5 different varieties and I hope that the people of Tiverton and the surrounding areas will enjoy these trees for many decades to come”.

The environmental benefits of this campaign will replenish forests and ensure habitats for wildlife are restored. The challenge is also a great way to involve communities, with activities varying from extending and under-planting existing woods to enhancing parks and open spaces.

If you would like to get involved in the Rotary Tree Challenge, grab your wellies and make contact with your local Rotary Club using the Rotary club finder. Alternatively, check the Rotary tree-planting schemes and take part without getting your hands dirty.