Former Hollyoaks actress and Hits Radio presenter Gemma Atkinson planted the first tree in a new woodland at an East Lancashire animal sanctuary this week.

Gemma, who is president of Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary in Edenfield, planted the first of thousands of native trees on the 55 acre site.  

The woodland, part of National Highways 13 Flood Management projects, will help with flooding on the land but also help local wildlife and have a positive impact on the environment.  

Lancashire Telegraph: Gemma AtkinsonGemma Atkinson (Image: Agency)

Sanctuary manager Karen Weed said: “The sanctuary is right in the valley so, when it rains, it pours through our site to the properties and the roads below us. 

“Last year, the water came through with such force it demolished a building further down the valley. 

“The water makes the land so boggy that it’s just not practical to use it. We can’t turn the animals out in those fields at all. 

“We heard about the National Highways project and thought it would provide a solution not just for us but for the wider community. 

“We are going to aerate the compacted soil and plant thousands of hawthorn saplings. They will be a real win-win as not only will they slow the flow of water, they’ll also encourage more wildlife. 

“We’re building storage ponds, installing leaky barriers and planting trees which, with the hawthorn, will be a good food source for our goats. 

“I think that’s why we found this scheme so attractive. Everything we do will bring multiple advantages."

Gemma said: “It’s an honour to plant the first tree. I can’t wait to watch the trees grow and know that it will prevent flooding but also to allow wildlife to flourish.” 

The first of the tree planting is on Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 March.

If anyone would like to volunteer to help please email karen@bleakholt.org.