This National Tree Week, Bridport Tree Planting and Groves Nurseries are doing their bit to help fight climate change and add to biodiversity throughout the town.

The Bridport garden centre has donated 800 saplings to the group, which continues to grow in popularity.

Joe Hackett, co-ordinator for Bridport Tree Planting, said: "This is an extremely kind gesture and, with another 800 saplings gong to our fellow tree planters in the Beaminster Eco Group, proves that Groves once again has its heart in the right place and cares for the environment.

"We are involved in a dozen or so plantings of hundreds of trees in public sites such as parks and small open spaces, as well as giving away up to five free trees to individuals for their own private gardens. There is a huge demand at the moment - more than 60 new people joined our contact list in less than a week."

The group, which started only a year ago, has 200 people on its mailing list and has helped plant or given away more than 1,000 trees in that time.

Joe added: "We've got new public schemes in the pipeline for Bothenhampton, Bradpole, Millennium Green, Asker Meadows and are planning a joint venture with Magna Housing, which owns moany suitable sites."

Bridport Tree Planting approached Groves Nurseries to see if they could work together.

Off the back of this, Groves launched its 'Buy One Get One Tree' scheme for 2020. Every tree that Groves sells during 2020, another is donated to Bridport Tree Planting.

Despite difficult trading conditions caused by Covid, the Groves has sold 1,600 trees.

Charlie Groves said: "Tree planting is one of the simplest ways to fight climate change.

"We are delighted to be working closely with Joe and Bridport Tree Planting to plant more trees across Dorset.

"Whether you have a large garden, a small patio or an allotment, you can usually find space for a tree, even if it's in a container."

Michael Dower, leader of the Beaminster Area Eco Group, praised Groves and thanked the nursery for its help.

He said: "During the last two winters, we planted or supplied over 1,500 trees, mainly in public places, in Beaminster, Corscombe, Halstock and three other parishes.

"This winter, we have plans and requests for planting in a growing number of parishes. South Perrott parish, for example, is planning to plant 250 trees and shrubs in many different public places and private gardens, one for each member of its population.

"The gift from Groves will enrich the variety of species that we can offer."