Local Charity plants trees for the community

The Parks Foundation, a local charity in Bournemouth, have planned to plant 35 trees in Winton Recreation Ground over the next two days, alongside volunteers from Linwood School.

The independent charity, founded in 2015, aims to revitalise Bournemouth’s parks through regular maintenance and raising funds for improving the towns green spaces.

Park activator, Melinda McCheyne said: “The Parks Foundation, who I work for, are all about getting nature into the park and working with the community”.

The Tree’s planted are all native to the area, and include species such as Silver Birch, Cherry and Rowan trees.

When questioned about the benefits of tree planting, Mrs McCheyne said: “Its proven that nature helps peoples’ mental health, people feel better outside. Tree planting provides shade and a meeting area”.

Not only does the park provide space for those who enjoy the outdoors, but the extra trees help Bournemouth’s environment and the conservation of local habitats.

Mrs Cheyne said: “The addition of more trees means insects and wildlife can blossom in our parks.”

The parks foundation currently works in 11 parks across town but plans to expand to every park in Bournemouth.

Local dog walker, Anne Doex, said: “It will be good because there’s no shelter here for people who want to sit in the gardens.”

The centre of the park has been left clear to ensure that games and community actives can continue.

Mrs Doex added: “The only thing I have to say that there’s not enough benches”. However, The Parks Foundation have confirmed that they are going to add seating under the newly planted trees.