WOODHOUSE Grove School students are tackling the effects of flooding on their school grounds at Apperley Bridge and Calverley and they are asking for volunteers to help.

The school grounds, with the River Aire passing through at the bottom, is prone to flooding.

The embankment has invasive non-native species, Himalayan Balsam, which has really shallow roots and leave the bank exposed in winter.

A group of students meet regularly, including on weekends, to remove the plant and replace it with willow which has larger roots that can take up more water.

The willow branches are also weaved into a fedge – a living fence hedge.

Peter Lambert, international coordinator and community liason officer at Woodhouse Grove, said: "We care about our environment, so much so, that we are determined to do something about the flooding that has blighted our lives for so long."

This project, which complements the nearby flood alleviation scheme at Apperley Bridge, is made possible thanks to funding by Rawdon Parish Council.

Weekend sessions will be open to the public to participate in tree planting where all tools will be provided by local environmental charity, Groundwork.

To volunteer, contact louise.ross@groundwork.org.uk or call 07824441534.