Local people are being encouraged to have a hands-on role and plant trees at a new centenary wood being developed at Fuaghan Valley, just outside Derry~Londonderry.

The Woodland Trust are organising an event at Brackfield Wood on November 7 and are calling on the public to become involved.

Olympic gold medallist Dame Mary Peters will be in attendance at one of the four flagship woods taking shape across the UK to mark the 100 year anniversary of the First World War. Millions of trees will be planted in recognition of the millions of lives lost during the conflict.

Brackfield Wood stretches by the banks of the River Faughan, just off the Glenshane Road, approximately seven miles outside the city.

'This is a wonderful opportunity, in the run up to Remembrance Day, for people to make their mark by planting trees at Brackfield Wood, still very much in its infancy,' said Patrick Cregg, director of the Woodland Trust. 

'By the end of the project, our aim is to have 40,000 native saplings planted here, with swathes of glorious wildflowers including poppies. The trees will be a living, growing and respectful tribute to the people from Ireland who played a part in the war: the soldiers, their families and loved ones. It’s estimated that as many as 40,000 lost their lives, with countless others affected.'

Dame Mary added: 'I am delighted to have the opportunity to plant a tree in remembrance of those who played a part in the First World War. In contrast to the loss and destruction, this will be a place of great beauty and tranquility: a place where people can walk, relax and reflect and a haven in which wildlife can thrive.

'We do hope that as many people as possible: adults and children, local people and visitors, will join us and make a huge contribution through the simple act of tree planting.'

People interested in taking part in the tree planting ceremony are encouraged to visit the wood on Saturday 7 November with sensible footwear.

For further information contact Michelle McCaughtry at the Woodland Trust on 0343 770 5750 or michellemccaughtry@woodlandtrust.org.uk