YOUR STORIES

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  "Trees support life! They are an intrinsic part of the Earth’s ecology. Without trees, we would die. It’s that simple. We rely on them for the oxygen in the air that we breathe. And they absorb carbon dioxide in the process, which is vital to control climate change. A walk in the woods is calming and refreshing. Every tree is special to me."
  
  Helen
  
  Image: Hilary Orchard

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  "Oxygenators, resources, landscape elements, wind diffusers, habitats, shade providers, pollution screeners, the benefits are immeasurable. We need trees to balance the incessant drive to cover our land with Tarmac and concrete, to provide sanctuary and a place to touch the earth lightly and reconnect. I cherish the thought that ‘my tree’ has stood for centuries looking over New Forest ponies, cattle and pigs and shows its scars and age with dignity and I hope it will continue to do so long after I have departed this life."
  
  Eleanor
  
  Image: Wendy Cotterill

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  "Trees are beautiful. Trees are needed as habitats for lots of wildlife. They take carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and give us oxygen, and so, I think, help reduce global warming.To name just a couple of reasons. In short – we need plenty of them. They are essential – we cannot live without them."
  
  Ros
  
  Image: Trees for Cities  

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  "In the 1970s, we lived in a house that had a Hawthorn tree at the bottom of the garden. I constantly sought refuge in this tree. Although climbing up was no problem, coming down was a different story. On one occasion, I was lodged fast in between two branches. My grandfather approached brandishing his saw, saying to release me he would have to ‘cut off a limb’. I thought he meant one of mine…"
  
  Moira
  
  Image: Kate Collins  

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  "I love looking at trees throughout the year for their colour, shape, the way they move in the wind, and the texture of the bark. Trees enhance the landscape in our towns and countryside for everyone. And if that’s not enough, trees are absolutely brilliant for our environment by giving us clean air to breathe, shade from the sun, shelter from strong winds and providing homes for many different birds and animals."
  
  Teresa
  
  Image: Peter Vince  

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  "My first memory of a tree was of a dead one!! As a child I watched a woodpecker drumming on it – I am now 72 and have never forgotten the sound. Trees are vital to the health of the whole world – giving off oxygen and capturing carbon – WHAT MORE CAN WE WANT? When in full leaf they give shelter for humans and livestock and feed thousands of birds and wildlife. In the last few years I have planted two Welsh Heritage fruit trees and a spindle in my garden. My two dead trees are covered in ivy. Great for the birds"
  
  Hazel
  
  Image: Sarah Rouse