A free scheme that has given away almost 200,000 trees is set to return to Ashby and North West Leicestershire.

Back for a 14th consecutive year, North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) is working with the National Forest Company to relaunch its Free Tree Scheme and Hedge Fund.

Running from Monday, October 9, to Friday, October 27, residents and community groups can apply for up to two free saplings from four different native species, including:

• Hazel
• Rowan
• Elder
• Wild Cherry

Residents can also apply for 30 metres of free hedging through the council's Hedge Fund which runs alongside the Free Tree Scheme.

Species include Hazel, Hawthorn and Rowan at 10 metre intervals.

Anyone who applies for free trees must be available to collect them on Sunday, November 19.

The trees are given away at approximately 60cm – 90cm (two to three feet high) and instructions on how to plant and look after the trees are provided.

Councillor Michael Wyatt, Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said: "Our free tree scheme is always very popular with residents.

"Last year, we gave away over 30,000 trees and are hoping to give away a similar amount, if not more, this year.

"The scheme has a great environmental impact on our district and we look forward to working with the National Forest Company once again to make it even greener."

Gill Forrester, Community and Wellbeing Manager at The National Forest Company said: "Our connection with, and reliance on, trees extends back centuries and there is now, more than ever, an increasing awareness of their importance and value for all forms of life. 

"We are delighted to offer our continued support for the tree scheme, its success over the past 14 years showing that we have not lost that connection and trees continue to play a central role in our lives.

"Trees really are transformational and by encouraging more people to plant them in their own gardens, we are helping to grow a greener, healthier and more sustainable future for everyone to enjoy."

People can find more information and submit their applications online HERE.