Malcolm Sargent Primary School pupils plant trees on Stamford Meadows as new rubbing posts revealed near Millstream and River Welland

Pupils have put down roots for a brighter future as part of a project to boost a town's green space.

More than 300 trees have been planted to replace the broken fence between the Meadows and Freemen’s Meadow in Stamford.

Stamford Town Council is leading the project and invited Malcolm Sargent Primary School pupils to pick up a spade and get their hands dirty.

Deeya, who is on the school’s eco-committee, said: “Trees are important as they provide oxygen to us and are home for animals.

“I’m focusing on making our world a better place with nature.”

A mixture of species were planted including yew, goat willow and dogwood, which will create a hedgeline.

The project is part of wider plans to boost biodiversity in Stamford, which also includes planting trees on the riverbank near Cattle Market, a wildflower meadow on land at Stamford Cemetery and putting bat and bird boxes for the cemetery, Recreation Ground and Allotments.

Stamford town councillor Amanda Wheeler (Lib Dem) was on hand to teach the children how to plant the trees. She said: “I think it’s important as they are the ones who are going to watch them grow. In fact, some of the children have been giving the trees names.

“They have shown commitment by giving up their time to help which makes it all worth it.”

On the same day East Mercia Rivers Trust introduced five new rubbing posts throughout The Meadows which feature aquatic creatures found in the Welland and Millstream rivers.

To use the posts, people should place a piece of paper on top of the laser-etched motif and use a pencil or crayon to shade over the area, which will reveal a drawing.

Rachel Butler, chief executive of the trust, said: “It’s important to East Mercia Rivers Trust that we inspire the future custodians of our natural environment to appreciate and understand it.

“The rubbing posts are designed to teach children about local wildlife while offering a fun, hands-on activity.”

Stamford town councillor Ed Fancourt, member of the assets committee, added: “The Meadows are a valuable community asset, and these rubbing posts are a great way for children to get outdoors, explore nature, and learn about the creatures living in our rivers.”

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