Mendip District Council, in partnership with the Woodland Trust, hosted a Tree Walk for Mendip Councillors, Parishes and tree wardens.

The tour, at Loxley Woods, near Street, gave attendees the opportunity to discuss the challenges of tree management, address carbon emission issues, and focus on how to make our environment better for nature and people.

The Council understands that trees are vital for tackling climate change and supporting biodiversity, which is why these tours are an integral part of Mendip's Climate Emergency Action Plan. Representatives from Town and Parish Councils in Frome, Witham Friary, Berkley, Glastonbury, Croscombe, St Cuthbert Out, Westbury-Sub-Mendip and Litton took part in the tour, alongside Mendip District Council Officers and Members.

Rosie Walker, Woodland Trust External Affairs Officer for the South West, said: "The District and Parish Councils will have a vital contribution in developing a Tree Strategy for Somerset. "The opportunity to visit Loxley Wood, an ancient woodland being gradually restored by the Woodland Trust, enabled lots of discussion not only about the threats to our wood and trees, but also how we can implement the solutions to protect and enhance these vital habitats - for nature to thrive in and for people to enjoy.

"Coming together with tree wardens, District and Parish Councillors and Mendip Council Officers gave us the opportunity to have rounded and collaborative discussions, including how the National Planning Policy Framework can be used to effectively protect these irreplaceable habitats. "Our ancient woods have been around since the 1600s and cannot be replaced. And the State of Woods and Tree Report in 2021 showed that only 7% of the UKs native woodlands are in good condition, so there is a lot of work to do."

Cllr Tom Ronan, Portfolio Holder for Climate Change, said: "We're grateful to the Woodland Trust for hosting this important tour, and delighted to see so many Councils attend. "It was a fantastic opportunity for us to be reminded of our responsibilities as local authorities and how we can work together to protect trees in Mendip. "Working collaboratively is the only way to ensure our landscape is preserved so that precious trees are looked after for future generations." Further tree walks are planned as part of Mendip's green agenda.