Group to safeguard beauty spots

A Shropshire town known as the county's Little Switzerland is taking new measures to safeguard beauty spots.

Residents in Church Stretton are worried that the town's trees are being wiped out by developers.

They say scores have been axed in recent years and the town's character is in danger of being ruined. Now local people are forming the Church Stretton Tree Group in a bid to protect the town's canopy.

Hilary Hymas, spokeswoman for the group, said it would include three tree wardens.

The group hopes to undertake a survey of important trees in the area and also help the district council to monitor and protect valued trees. It aims to encourage new planting and raise awareness of the importance of trees and woodland.

Mrs Hymas said: "As projects develop, the group will be looking for the support and involvement of the local community.

"There will be opportunities to get involved with tree planting and the after care of trees and hedges and growing saplings from locally collected seeds."

Mrs Hymas said that she hoped local people would volunteer to get involved with surveys so that special trees could be identified.

Fore more details on the group call Hilary Hymas on (01694) 723208 or e-mail hilary.hymas@virgin.net.