A GROUP of Brownies are going green as they do their bit to enhance the environment.

Members of the Wetheral pack have embarked on an ambitious tree planting programme as part of a project to take action in the community surrounding them.

It’s an effort which has seen them support the Woodland Trust by planting hundreds of trees and bushes.

Tawny Owl Janice Brown said: “The unit approached the Woodland Trust and applied for one of their community packs, hoping to get trees to plant in an area where a shelter belt for wildlife would be beneficial.”

The was ecstatic when it was awarded 315 trees and 30 hedging plants.

The girls and some family members went along a patch of land at Wyeknot Farm, where they planted the colour co-ordinated trees and shrubs.

Vicki Baddeley, project leader for the Woodland Trust’s community tree packs scheme, said: “We are delighted to hear the Brownies are going green.

“Members of Girlguiding are such integral parts of the communities they belong to so, it’s lovely to see 1st Wetherall rolling up their sleeves and digging in to green up their area.

“Trees do so much for us. They improve our soil and water quality, can slow or prevent flooding, provide a home for wildlife, shelter for livestock, a harvest or just a space to breathe.

“The trees and hedging that the Brownies are planting will doubtless form a cherished part of the community. We hope they will flourish and that the girls will enjoy looking after them for the benefit of others, maybe even earning themselves a badge in the process.”

The Brownies explained: “Planting these trees is very important because they make oxygen and we need oxygen to live. There are lots of people in the world, so we don’t want to run out.”

With the creation of a new woodland, the hopes to establish a place they can return to for generations.

They hard planting work has also been rewarded with some fun, with the girls treated to a little play time with the Wyeknot Donkeys - with one new recruit saying her Brownie promise while holding a donkey on its lead.