WORTHY causes in Burnham are being invited to apply to receive free young trees.

Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre is offering schools, charities, village organisations and community groups, between 50 and 100 saplings for projects they are running.

Andrew Pitman, plant manager at the independent, family-run garden centre at Monkton Heathfield, said: “Our sapling giveaway is a yearly event that has proved extremely popular.

"Any worthy causes which have missed out in the past are welcome to put themselves forward again this year to receive the saplings.

“We have 2,014 saplings to give away and they will be allocated on a first come, first served basis so people should submit their requests as soon as possible.

"Anyone who feels their school, charity or group is deserving of the free saplings should get in touch."

The trees are indigenous British varieties.

The closing date for requests is 5pm on Friday, February 28. Requests from commercial bodies will not be considered.

Andrew said: “The saplings are perfect for planting together in groups as they make great hedging, but organisations are free to use them however they wish.”

Applicants should write to Andrew giving details of their project and why they think they deserve to receive a group of saplings.

The address is: Andrew Pitman, Plant Manager, Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre, Monkton Heathfield, Taunton, TA2 8QN.