FREE packs including 4,725 individual trees have been given away to community groups across Halton and Cheshire.

The Woodland Trust has distributed them as part of a nationwide effort to make schools and neighbourhoods greener.

The UK is one of the least wooded countries in Europe, with just 13 per cent woodland compared to 44 per cent on the continent.

John Tucker, the trust’s director of woodland creation, said: "We’re very excited to have given away so many trees this season.

“Planting these free trees will not only help people make their schools and neighbourhoods greener and healthier, it’s also a great chance for people to do something meaningful for their local community, and getting children involved is the perfect way to teach them about their environment.

“Luckily we have been able to make even more tree packs available this autumn, so other groups don’t miss this wonderful opportunity.”

Gardening clubs, brownies, scouts applied for trees. More saplings will be available in the autumn.

To apply for your free pack, visit woodlandtrust.org.uk/freetrees.

The trees have been generously funded by IKEA and Biffa Award, and by WH Smith, Wilko, Nicky and players of People’s Postcode Lottery.