Woodland Trust is urging the community to apply for its free tree scheme, which packs are funded by partners Sainsbury's, Lloyds Bank, OVO Energy, Bank of Scotland and Sofology.

Schools and communities are being urged to plant trees as a woodland conservation charity is giving away thousands of trees.

The Woodland Trust still has 300,000 trees up for grabs as part of its free trees scheme.

The charity encourages the community to get the trees as they boost nature, combat flooding, provide shelter and reduce pollution.

Steve Shill, senior project lead in woodland creation at the Trust urged people to apply now.

He said: “This is an amazing opportunity for any schools and communities to do something really positive for the New Year. Tree planting is a great way to involve lots of people and get out planting can boost mental and physical health during these dark winter months.

“It only takes a few minutes to apply and these trees could bring several lifetimes of benefits”

The Woodland Trust scheme delivers hundreds of thousands of free trees twice a year for planting in spring and autumn.

Millions of trees have been planted across the country over the last few years.

Mr Shill added: “Trees are essential in our fight against climate change and research shows that more trees have a direct, positive effect on people’s health. The UK needs millions more trees to reach its 2050 carbon net-zero target.

“By digging in with us, you'll help bring us nearer this important goal. Don’t miss out.”

Tree packs are generously funded by lead partners Sainsbury's, Lloyds Bank, OVO Energy, Bank of Scotland and Sofology.

Tree packs come in packs of 30, 105 or 420 trees and in different varieties to suit their purpose – from hedging, copse, for wildlife or wild harvest.

Application for free trees closes on Monday, January 8. People can apply at the Woodland Trust website.