Preserving the past and improving the future was a talk given by members of a newly formed civic society.

Two volunteers from Chatteris Past, Present and Future Civic Society (CPPF), spoke about the aims of the group.

Helen Wootton and Ian Mason said a major public concern was the huge loss of trees over the years, including losing huge numbers with Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs).

The pair said it was thought to be largely due to building developments when replacement trees were not always been planted as agreed.

They outlined a major project the society had initiated that aimed to restore the loss of trees by mapping them over the next two to three years.

If necessary the group said they will then seek TPOs for them.

“Alarmingly, CPPF surveys have found that the existing official tree maps are badly out of date and do not reflect the true picture,” Mr Mason said.

An example was given where a small area of Chatteris was deemed by official maps to have 127 trees with TPOs but, when the area was surveyed by CPPF volunteers, it was found that the actual number was 52.

The Woodland Trust has helped supply new trees and some have now been planted along the old Chatteris railway line.

In conjunction with Chatteris Town Council and Fenland District Council the society has been trying to establish ownership of the Old Quaker Meeting House with a view to getting both that and the rope works buildings protected by being listed.

The March Society’s Christmas event, the Christmas fun quiz, will be on Wednesday December 9 at 7pm in March Library.

Everyone is welcome. Members £2, non-members £3, including nibbles, tea and coffee.