News Release

11th February 2009

AUTUMN IS NATURE’S NATURAL TIME FOR PLANTING

A children’s charity is looking to promote tree planting this autumn and in doing so raise funds for its life saving work in Africa. Feed The Children (UK) is asking garden centres to take part in its ‘Saplings Project’, which aims to get more trees planted both here in the UK and in Africa.

The project has the support of author and broadcaster, Tony Russell.

“So inspired was I with Feed The Children’s Saplings Project,” says Tony, “that I decided to donate a page to it in my 'Gardens to Visit' book. As a 'tree man' anything to do with trees pulls all the right strings for me and it was especially so with such a good cause as this. I wish the charity well in its campaign to get more trees planted both in this country and in Africa."

Brian Main, the charity’s chief executive, adds, “The campaign highlights the crucial role trees play both here and in Africa, including energy and carbon offset. You can use our simple questionnaire to work out your carbon footprint. We will also be publicising participating centres.”

80% of rural Africans depend on wood for fuel, but in some parts of Africa, trees are becoming scarce due to nomadic habits and pressures of growth. The saplings project and trees in general can give triple benefits – nutrition, fuel and employment.

For more information on the Saplings project ring Feed The Children on 0118 932 0095 or visit their website www.feedthechildren.org.uk.  Garden centres who wish to take up this sales opportunity should ring DSH on 01252 408820 or email sue@dshpr.co.uk to register their interest or find out more.