Tame Valley volunteers return to see their tree-planting efforts

Young Friends of the Tame Valley volunteers have returned to see how trees they helped plant in 2022 have grown in the intervening years.

The visit saw Stephen Martin, Chairman of the Friends of the Tame Valley, return to the site alongside three of the original volunteers, who were able to see first-hand how the young saplings had developed since they were planted four years ago.

Mr. Martin told us: “After planting the saplings in 2022 with our young volunteers, it was absolutely fantastic to revisit the site and see just how much they have grown. I was delighted to return with three of the original volunteers who helped plant the young saplings, giving them the opportunity to see the wonderful results of their hard work and the lasting positive impact they have made on the environment.”

Josiah said: I remember coming down a few years ago with the FoTV group to plant these tiny saplings, and now look how tall and healthy they are. I'm proud of getting involved.

Sam said: It's amazing to see how much they've grown in just four years – they're now taller than me! A huge thank you to Friends of the Tame Valley for giving me the opportunity to get involved and for leading such a successful project. Not only has it made a real difference to air quality, but it's also transformed the area and looks fantastic.

Anna said: The volunteers have grown nearly as much as the trees! It's so brilliant to see what happens when you plan for the future.

The original tree-planting work, which we covered in 2022, formed part of the Friends of the Tame Valley’s ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the area's green spaces, bringing local people together to improve the natural environment for future generations.

Friends of the Tame Valley is a volunteer-led community group working to improve and protect the Tame Valley, from Shepley Wood in Audenshaw, through Jet Amber Fields, to Upper Haughton and Whittles Meadows in Haughton Green.

The group carries out regular litter picks, nature conservation, and habitat protection work, as well as helping to maintain footpaths and improve access to the valley. Its activities also include tackling invasive Himalayan balsam, planting trees, and working with local people to encourage greater appreciation of the area's wildlife and natural spaces.

Through the dedication of its volunteers, the group continues to make a positive contribution to the local environment and help ensure the valley remains a welcoming green space for the community to enjoy.

You can find out more about the Friends of the Tame Valley at fotv.org.uk.