The first community tree planting session of Wellington’s very own forest garden has been hailed a huge success.

The event took place on Saturday, December 4, in Fox’s Field, by the old mill, and was organised by the Transition Town Wellington (TTW) team, led by Helen Gillingham.

The weather could have put a dampener on things, but the double rainbows that arched over the field seemed like a good omen, and despite the showers and occasional gusts of wind, 40-plus people turned up with big smiles as well as pitchforks, spades, cardboard and wheelbarrows, to help with planting.

They were there to join in with what feels to many like the start of an eco-adventure! A wonderful project that will benefit both the human population and the many small creatures and birds who are now endangered.

As it matures the forest garden is designed to provide crops such as fruits, nuts, edible leaves, herbs, spices and medicinal plants, as well as materials such as poles, fibres for tying and basketry, and other products. Once established, it will be completely sustainable, as trees, shrubs and plants are mixed in such a way as to mimic the structure of a natural forest.

This means that unlike mono-crop farming, a forest garden increases biodiversity and nourishes the soil at the same time as it grows food, and does so without any need for artificial fertilisers.

There is a Climate Change emergency, recognised by our government and our local councils, and there is an urgent need to do what we can to protect the natural world - which includes us. This project may be small in terms of global action but as a concept it is huge and can be an example of how we can provide both a natural environment and crops in a sustainable way.

About 75 trees and bushes were planted on Saturday, now all mulched down with cardboard and hay – with three more planting days to go. TTW hopes that even more of our community will become involved, as this is truly something for everyone in Wellington to feel part of and to be very proud of.

The next planting session is on December 11, 1-3pm. Check Transition Town Wellington’s Facebook page for details or contact the group via its website, ttw.org.uk