HYNDBURN Council is backing a tree planting scheme which has already spent more than £400,000 on creating woodland in the borough.

The council, along with other East Lancashire authorities and voluntary organisations, has signed up to a partnership agreement to support the work of the Elwood initiative, which is managed by Groundwork East Lancashire.

So far in Hyndburn the initiative has supported 18 woodland projects, which have seen more than 130,000 trees planted at a total cost of £415,000. Among bigger projects are the Millennium Baby Wood, Altham, Bury Meadows, Oswaldtwistle, and Martholme Farm, Great Harwood.

Councillor John Griffiths welcomed the partnership. He said: "This is a real good news story for Hyndburn.

"Elwood has achieved some important environ-mental improvements in the borough.

"Local people benefit, our landscape is improved and it also offers advice and grant funding for land owners"

Many local landowners have already benefited from Elwood advice and grant funding and there are still opportunities available.

Anyone interested in woodland planting, small or large areas, should get in touch with the Elwood team on 01282 430433 or visit the website at www.eastlancswoodlands.org