A BATLEY and Spen MP is hoping that new cherry trees which have been planted in the area will leave a "lasting legacy".

Tracy Brabin MP held discussions with the Japanese Embassy, which led to the trees being donated as part of the Sakura Project, before they were planted in the grounds of Batley’s Bagshaw Museum last week.

The trees will also be planted at various other locations across Batley and Spen in the coming weeks, including at Batley train station.

Speaking after planting a tree at Bagshaw Museum, Tracy Brabin MP said: “These trees will be beautiful and will leave a lasting legacy here in Batley and Spen that will provide people across the constituency with stunning trees for many years to come.

“I’m proud that these trees are going across Batley and Spen, from when you arrive at Batley station and in every corner of the constituency.

"After this awful year, with the pandemic, it will be nice to see Batley and Spen in bloom.”