FAMILIES turned out in force to plant more than 50 trees in what is hoped to be a Centenary forest on Dorcan playing field on the weekend.

A variety of deciduous trees donated to Stratton St Margaret Parish Council were planted by families who brought their own spades to create a lasting tribute to the Centenary of the First World War.

Three parachute jumpers from the Royal British Legion also braved strong winds to land on the playing field after the trees were finished.

Roger Smith, parish councillor for Stratton St Margaret, said: "We were delighted with the turnout, and we're very grateful for the support.There were scores of people in Stratton who died in the war so it's remembering the sacrifice their of lives and after the war."

Lee Ollis, from Upper Stratton, brought his two kids to help plant horse chestnut saplings, said: "Sometimes when you live in a town you don't get to see what's happening in the environment, and I would rather see lots of trees than lots of buildings."

The site of the forest, which had been used as a football pitch in the past, will take around four years to mature.