Volunteers turned out in force to plant more than 1,000 trees in just two hours.

More than 100 people took part in the tree planting initiative organised by Horsforth’s ward councillors. The planting, off Calverley Lane, was in support of the Woodlands Trust National Tree Planting Day and the trees were donated by Bradford based company Shark Ninja.

Among those taking part were volunteers from Horsforth in Bloom, Horsforth Litter Pickers, Plastic Free North West Leeds, local residents’ groups, Horsforth Climate Action Hub and West Yorkshire Police Cadets.

Councillor Jonathon Taylor said: “To have so many people turn out and get this done in just two hours has defied our expectations, we initially thought we would be here well into the afternoon. It demonstrates that Horsforth is ready and willing to play its part to increase canopy cover and improve our environment.”

Councillor Jackie Shemilt added: “We have families here planting with their children, who can come back in years to come and see how much their tree has grown.”

Councillor Dawn Collins said: “Trees are the easiest way to absorb carbon and this site is right on the Ring Road. We have ordered another 2,500 for March but given the success of today we think we may need more. The response from our community has been quite overwhelming.”