A group of people with learning disabilities planted young oak trees in their local woodland after nurturing them from little acorns.
The group, who are all members of the gardening club at Chepstow Mencap’s base in the Berkeley Centre near Trellech, planted the acorns in pots after care worker Rose Hopkins collected them on Beacon Hill.
Rose then contacted Forestry Commission Wales local area manager Richard Gable, who looks after nearby Berkeley Wood on behalf of the Assembly Government, for help in returning the trees to the soil.
Richard and FC Wales Woodland Manager Bob Mayo were happy to oblige and helped each of the group to remove the oak trees from their pots and plant them in suitable areas in the woodland.
Richard said, “We were delighted to help them to plant the trees they had grown themselves from seed back in the area where the acorns were sourced.
“This is a great example of how our forests are sustainable and can offer environmental and social benefits, as well as helping to preserve the special landscape character of Wales.”
The Berkeley Centre introduces people with learning disabilities to activities and clubs designed to develop social and educational skills, promote independence and at the same time provide fun and enjoyment.
Rose and two other care workers, Jamie Lawson and Margaret Mustow, came along to the woodland with gardening club members Carly Brown, Tracy Jones, Jane Edwards, Glynis Northcote and Nigel Turner.
They brought with them about 20 oak trees in pots which they replanted in an area of the woodland ready for restocking.
“We all had a terrific afternoon and I’m sure they all benefited greatly from the experience,” said Rose.
The day was such a success that FC Wales agreed to make the tree planting a regular event each year for the gardening club members.
