Presteigne and Norton Town Council is taking part in a national initiative to offer every housefold in Wales the chance to plant a tree, free of charge.

The ambitious Welsh Government initiative, called My Tree Our Forest, is facilitated by Coed Cadw, the Woodland Trust in Wales.

Households across Wales can collect their tree, free of charge, from this week as part of giveaway designed to tackle the climate and nature emergencies.

Presteigne and Norton Town Council is one of 50 hubs located across Wales where people can collect their tree.

All trees will be native, broadleaf species that will grow into small-medium sized trees suitable for gardens and smaller spaces, and will come with planting instructions. As they mature they’ll lock up carbon, fight the effects of climate change and support wildlife.

10 different species of native and broadleaf trees are available to choose from. These are: Hazel, Rowan, Hawthorn, Silver Birch, Crab Apple, Sessile Oak, Dogwood, Dog Rose, Field Maple andElder.

On-site volunteers will advise members of the public which of the species available through the scheme is most suitable for their space and how to care for their tree.

The hub, sited at the Old School, Hereford Street, Presteigne, (LD8 2AR) will be open to the public on Saturday mornings from 10am - 12 midday and Wednesday afternoons 4pm - 6pm each week from November 19 until December 14.

Deputy Climate Change Minister, Lee Waters said: “Trees are a lifeline to us and all of the amazing life that they support. Where would our birds, insects and animals be without them… where would we be without them?

“I want everyone in Wales to check out our website to find your nearest tree giveaway hub and pick up your free broadleaf tree from tomorrow. On site, our wonderful volunteers will be ready with their expert advice to help you choose the right tree for your space and situation.

“As COP27 draws to a close in Egypt, our continued Team Wales effort in fronting up to the climate and nature emergencies is essential.

“By growing a beautiful tree in your own backyard, you can kickstart your contribution and help grow a healthy and happy Wales for us and our future generations to benefit from.”

In order to become a Net Zero Wales by 2050, experts have advised that Wales must plant 86 million trees over the next decade.

Natalie Buttriss, director of Coed Cadw said: “Trees have always offered simple and cost-effective solutions to the challenges we all face and through the My Tree Our Forest initiative, we hope to inspire people from all backgrounds, regions and walks of life to get involved, and as a result, feel more connected to the multiple benefits that trees can bring.”

For those unable to attend a hub to collect a tree, one can be ordered online and delivered to their door.

Alternatively, a tree can be planted on their behalf, helping to grow a National Forest for Wales, home by home.

Please note the scheme is for those residents of Wales only.