WORCESTER'S MP has donated several trees as part of an initiative to mark The Queen's lifetime of service to the Commonwealth.

Robin Walker has accepted a small number of trees and awarded them to local organisations that have made a valuable contribution to the local community.

St Richard’s Hospice and Acorns have been presented with their trees, and St Paul’s Hostel and The Breast Cancer Unit are currently having their presentation ceremonies scheduled.

The saplings were donated to the MP thanks to a partnership between the Woodland Trust, Sainsbury’s and ITV, which in April screened a landmark documentary.

The Queen's Green Planet followed the Queen and this ambitious legacy project which brings together her deeply held commitment to the Commonwealth and her little-known love of trees. 

Mr Walker said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to put Worcester forward for this fantastic campaign, which not only symbolises the importance of the Commonwealth, but also encourages the preservation of our natural environment.

"The organisations chosen have all provided an invaluable service to the people of Worcester, and I am always very keen to recognise this hard work. Improving the condition of our environment requires a global consensus, and earlier this year I was pleased to see the positive reception given to the Prime Minister’s call for action by Commonwealth leaders.

"Our work with the British Overseas Territories already makes a sizeable contribution in this field, and with the support of the Commonwealth we will be well placed to do even more.

"I am delighted that the Government remains committed to achieving our goal of being the first Government to leave our environment in a better condition than that which we inherited.”

Woodland Trust chief executive Beccy Speight said: “We are delighted so many MPs have decided to join us in our bid to plant trees as part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy. 

"We all need trees. They are a cornerstone of our landscape and countryside, forming an essential and cherished part of our cultural identity. They are crucial in improving soil health and water quality, reducing carbon, trapping pollutants, slowing the flow of flood water, sheltering livestock, providing a home for wildlife or a space for us to breathe.

"I hope the residents of Worcester will enjoy watching them flourish as part of this wonderful legacy initiative.”