VOLUNTEERS are wanted to help plant apple trees in Oxford.

A group of residents will be planting saplings at Meadow Lane Nature Park, on the banks of the Thames in East Oxford, next Saturday, February 16.

Sue Rowe, who is organising the event, explained that cash for the apples was given by county councillor for the area Sobia Afridi.

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She said: "We would love as many friends as possible to come along and help.

"The idea is to increase the biodiversity and general community interest in the park."

Oxford Mail:

Ms Rowe said she and her fellow nature lovers had chosen 'local' varieties of apple which they plan to plant in a woodland glade in the centre of the reserve, as well as some hedgerow species.

Anyone who wants to help on Saturday is invited between 1.30pm and 4pm.

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Volunteers are asked to bring tools if they can, specifically spades and trowels and wheelbarrows. Juice and biscuits will be provided.

The work will include some heavy digging, but also lighter jobs like putting on tree guards.

Ms Rowe added: "It will be great fun and really worthwhile - this is the beginning of Meadow Lane becoming an area of greater biodiversity and interest for the community." Email suer1953@yahoo.co.uk