More than 50 people, all armed with spades, took part in Chatteris’ first ‘tree planting session’ at the town’s new park.

Cambs Times: More than 50 people armed with spades turned out to plant saplings at Chatteris’ new Little Acre Fen park. Picture: CHATTERIS TOWN COUNCILMore than 50 people armed with spades turned out to plant saplings at Chatteris’ new Little Acre Fen park. Picture: CHATTERIS TOWN COUNCIL (Image: CHATTERIS TOWN COUNCIL)

The event was described as a “great show of community spirit” on Saturday, November 24, when locals planted donated saplings at Little Acre Fen Pocket Park.

The project is spearheaded by the town council and it aims to create a space for everyone to “enjoy the vast open skies of the Fens”.

The council also plans to link the park with the Old Railway Line footpath to form a circular walking route.

A spokesman said: “After paying for the site to be cleared and a footpath installed, the council is now commissioning work to install a pond and dipping platform.

Cambs Times: More than 50 people armed with spades turned out to plant saplings at Chatteris’ new Little Acre Fen park. Picture: CHATTERIS TOWN COUNCILMore than 50 people armed with spades turned out to plant saplings at Chatteris’ new Little Acre Fen park. Picture: CHATTERIS TOWN COUNCIL (Image: CHATTERIS TOWN COUNCIL)

“They’ve also commissioned a raised viewing area and a dry pond. Residents are being invited to sponsor trees in a memorial area.”

Councillors Julie Smith, Bill Haggata and James Carney assisted with the project and say that they are “delighted by the turnout” on Saturday.

The Mayor, Cllr Haggata, planted a tree as part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy, assisted by the many children who were present.

The children also took part in a treasure hunt for nature clues around the park organised by Cllr Smith.

For more information, email: chatteriscouncil@btconnect.com or call: 01354 695166.