A series of public tree planting sessions is set to launch in Greenhill next week.

The planting days have been organised by Friends of Greenhill Park and the Community Forestry Team to help extend a hedge at the side of the Sheffield park.

Though there have been several tree planting projects over the years, the organisations hope the extension of the hedge will add an additional resource to improve the biodiversity of the area.

Lindy Stone of community network Greener Greenhill said: “Greenhill Park is a hidden gem in a beautiful setting right on the very southern edge of Sheffield, bordering Derbyshire farmland.

“We have lots of lovely green spaces locally already but we are looking to help plot and extend wildlife corridors in our part of Sheffield.”

She added: “The range of native species will provide a rich habitat for insects, birds and other wildlife as well as looking beautiful throughout the year.”

From Tuesday 14 December, Greenhill residents will gather to plant 2,000 bare root whips from a mixed variety of native hedge species including Hawthorn, Alder buckthorn and Hornbeam. 

All abilities of planters are encouraged to participate and members of the park’s Community Forestry team will be in attendance to offer guidance, answer questions and supply tools and protective gloves. 

“I think every local effort we can make is important” – Councillor Simon Clement-Jones

Simon Clement-Jones, Beauchief and Greenhill councillor, said: “I think every local effort we can make is important.

“Involving the local community in this sort of thing is absolutely vital in getting to where we need to be.”

The scheduled planting sessions will take place on Tuesdays from 11am to 2pm across December.

Family-friendly Saturday sessions will follow in the new year. 

In order to keep the community safe, the organisers ask that planters remain a 2m distance from one another throughout the sessions. Masks are optional.

To get involved, sign up here.