Red Rose Forest attracts £184,000 for tree planting in Greater Manchester

3 August 2011: For immediate release

Greater Manchester is set to benefit from tens of thousands of new trees thanks to funding offered to Red Rose Forest as part of the Government's Big Tree Plant.

The national campaign has set aside £184,000 for Greater Manchester's community forest over the next four years to support tree planting and get people involved in their environment across the local area.

Starting this autumn, Red Rose Forest will use the funds to help community groups, schools and local residents to brighten their neighbourhoods with new street trees, woodlands and mini-orchards.

Tony Hothersall, Director of Red Rose Forest, said: "This funding is fantastic news for the people of Greater Manchester. Getting trees in our cities and towns is vital. Trees shield houses from traffic noise, can help save energy, reduce the risk of flooding and also help fight the effects of air pollution and climate change.

"This funding will allow us to build upon our work and continue to bring huge environmental, social and financial benefits to the area."

The Big Tree Plant brings together national tree-planting organisations and local groups working with Defra and the Forestry Commission. The campaign is supported by grant funding of £4 million over the next four years to get more people in local communities planting and caring for trees.

Pam Warhurst, Chair of the Forestry Commission, said: "The Big Tree Plant is all about bringing people together to improve our neighbourhoods for the benefit of all. It will be fantastic to see the impact of the many tree planting projects that this funding will support across Greater Manchester."

Red Rose Forest's funding was applied for through Community Forests Northwest, the charity that supports Red Rose Forest, Pennine Edge Forest and The Mersey Forest - the latter of which has also been offered an additional £250,000 for tree planting in in Merseyside and North Cheshire.

Local groups can continue to apply for Big Tree Plant funding, with applications welcome from now until 5th September as part of the second round of grants. To find out more, visit www.direct.gov.uk/thebigtreeplant.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

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