‘Planting for Peasedown’ was organised by local Councillor, Nathan Hartley (Lib Dem, Peasedown) following calls from residents that more needed to be done to enhance community spirit.

Last Saturday over 40 residents turned out to do their bit for the environment as members of the local Cub group, Peasedown Churches Together, PAT (Peasedown Area Transition) and Councillors planted a variety of Lime, Birch, Hawthorn and Cherry trees on the edge of the village.

Cllr Nathan Hartley, who planned the event to coincide with National Tree Week, said: 

“All over the country tree planting initiatives are being used as great examples of bridging community divides. Tree planting is something for all ages, people of all backgrounds, it gives people a sense of pride in their community and it’s good for the environment and wildlife. 

I am really pleased that Peasedown’s first community tree planting event has been a success. Over 40 residents turned out on a cold winter morning determined to make a mark in their village. 

I would particularly like to thank Mark Cassidy from B&NES Council, Shane Bowkett from Abbeyfield Landscapes and the new campaign group ‘More Trees for Bath and North East Somerset’ for the support they have given me with this project. It was great to see so many children and young people helping who in 20-30 years time will be able to see the lasting legacy this tree planting event has had.” 

Planting for Peasedown was funded entirely by donations from residents. Cllr Hartley believes this in itself has been a testament to the desire that people have to see community spirit strengthened.

Nathan said: 

“I would really like to thank the twenty-two residents whose funding made it possible to buy the trees, tree tubes and stakes. Without their help Planting for Peasedown would not have happened.” 

Next year Cllr Hartley will be working with the Peasedown Area Transition group to plant a mini-orchard in the village.