National Trust call to ‘run for the trees’
LOCAL running clubs have asked their members to ‘run for the trees’ this year to help preserve and grow the woodlands of the Peak District.
The clubs want to raise over a thousand pounds for the National Trust’s Peak District Appeal at local races, writes DAVID BOCKING.
“We’re really grateful to the organisers of fell races at Wirksworth, Ilam and Longshaw for helping us kick start our fundraising this year,” said Jon Stewart, general manager for the National Trust in the Peak District.
“For many active people, the Peak District is effectively their sports stadium, but in a wonderful natural environment. By making a donation or choosing the Peak District Appeal as a designated charity for an event, they’re putting something back for themselves and helping our countryside for generations to come.”
The Peak District Woods for the Future Appeal has raised £15,000 to support the planting of native trees such as lime, maple and yew in the White Peak to keep woodlands alive in areas that could be devastated as ash dieback.
The Appeal has planted 300 new trees (including oak, lime, field maple and alder) in areas affected by ash dieback in Dovedale and Taddington Woods.
“We’re asking anyone who loves the woodlands to think about how they can help,” said Mr Stewart. “That might be sponsored events by families, churches or community groups, or asking your walking, cycling or mountaineering club to step, pedal or climb for the trees.”
NT rangers and volunteers will be choosing their own favourite trees over the next year to highlight why trees and woodlands are so important to Peak District people.