Residents are being encouraged to plant trees and create a new woodland in Panshanger Park as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative.

From December 20 to January 20 next year, schools, businesses, families and individuals are welcome to come and plant one of the 17,000 trees, which will be a lasting legacy for Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away earlier this year.

In total, 19 native species of tree and shrubs will be planted including oak, hornbeam, Scots pine, wild cherry, holly and hawthorn. There are also plans to include a wildflower meadow and ponds, creating a variety of habitats for wildlife.

Michael Charlton, estates manager at park owners Tarmac, said: “The tree planting sessions are a wonderful opportunity for people to pay their respects to Her Majesty, while helping to create a new woodland for the whole community to enjoy.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Land in the north of the park will be used for the new woodland. Credit: TarmacLand in the north of the park will be used for the new woodland. Credit: Tarmac (Image: Tarmac)

“By increasing the number of trees at the park, we are also absorbing carbon within the atmosphere and improving biodiversity locally – so this is a chance to be part of something really special.”

Jo Whitaker, Panshanger Park’s people and wildlife officer, Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, believes being able to walk through an area created by the community will be a special experience for anyone who visits Panshanger Park.

“Getting outside in nature provides a much-needed boost for our physical and mental wellbeing – particularly at this time of year when daylight hours are so limited.

“As well as improving the park’s biodiversity, seeing the woodland develop and walking through the trees in the years to come will be a very special experience for all our visitors.”

Welwyn Hatfield Times: 19 different native tree species will be planted. Credit: Tarmac19 different native tree species will be planted. Credit: Tarmac (Image: Tarmac)

Councillor Eric Buckmaster, executive member for the environment at Hertfordshire County Council, added: “This new woodland at Panshanger Park is a fantastic example of the kind of partnership working that is required to improve nature in Hertfordshire.

“I’m really pleased that a number of our staff and councillors will be attending the planting sessions alongside many of our countryside and rights of way volunteers to get these trees in to the ground and would encourage as many residents to get involved as possible.”