Schoolchildren have planted 105 saplings in Balderstone Park

Councillor Richard Farnell (left) and Garry Johnson, head of St Mary's Primary School (right) with youngsters and helpers enjoy an enviro-day at Balderstone Park

Youngsters from St Mary's and Holy Family primary schools have planted 105 saplings in Balderstone Park.

The children also took part in storytelling and art classes in the library decorating leaves with their hopes and aspirations which were hung on a 'dream tree'.

The event was organised by the Friends of Balderstone Park. Chairperson Pat Colclough said: "It was so pleasing to see so many young people enjoying the park. The saplings will grow into mature trees and it will be very nice for the children to watch their tree grow over the coming years.

Local councillor Richard Farnell, who attended the event, said: "Environmental education is very important. Young people care about green issues and it was great to see so many children taking part in nature activities in their local park."

Every child was given a sunflower seed to grow at home, donated by Gordon Rigg Garden Centre.

The saplings were provided by the Woodland Trust and the event was supported by Tesco and Rochdale Council.