A COMMUNITY wood planted to give future generations a place to play flourished into life this week.

At the Minety Road recreation ground in Penhill 200 saplings were planted by volunteers and members of the 2nd Swindon Scouts and Penhill Guides.

During the morning planting session, 200 two foot trees or whips were placed into the ground, marking the start of the community play wood in the area.

It was a true community effort with tools provided and trees transported by Penhill Orchard. The event was co-ordinated and insured by the Penhill Forum.

The new wood was planted in partnership with the Penhill Community Association who were delighted with the progress made in the wood and plan to plant a further 200 trees in the near future.

Varieties of hawthorn, bird cherry and oak trees were planted at the event, which will serve as a community play wood for years to come.

Marilyn Beale from the Penhill Forum said getting young people involved in the planting of the wood was essential.

“It was great to see something that future families and generations can enjoy. Everyone got well and truly stuck in for this cause," she said.

“I think it’s important for children to get involved in gardening and nature and I know they will do their best to look after it and maintain it to the highest standards.

“They are all green-fingered youngsters who did a fantastic job and planting a community forest is important to them.

“At the moment the trees may only be small but we hope that they will flourish in the near future and keep generations in years to come happy and entertained.

“The trees are very small but well rooted so by the end of the summer you should be able to see them. It’s amazing to think that one day there will be a fully grown wood there which families and children can enjoy and have picnics in.

“Planting a wood is a waiting and watching sort of thing. We’re all really looking forward to seeing the progress the trees make in the coming months and years. We hope it will encourage more people in the Penhill community to come down to the beautiful land at the rec and enjoy the weather in the summer."

The trees were planted courtesy of Trust for Conservation volunteers. All children that helped plant the trees will receive a certificate.

Refreshments were then provided for thirsty gardeners at the Chippenham Close community centre.