A local group of hardy volunteers have given their own present to Congleton War Memorial Hospital in its 100th year, with the gifting of 700 plants.

Trees of Congleton, who are known locally for their efforts to keep the town green, provided the plants and arranged public planting sessions following permission to go ahead with the plans.

The tree planting scheme took place over seven sessions with volunteers of all ages dedicating over 100 hours to plant 700 hedge plants and 12 fruit trees during late February and March, which are now enjoying the improved spring weather.

The hedgerow, which comprises hawthorn, field maple, beech, alder buckthorn, holly and Cotoneaster franchetii, will form a new 140-metre-long boundary adjacent to Canal Road and provide an excellent mix of habitat for wildlife in addition to being visually pleasing.

The fruit tree orchard includes seven apples, two heritage pears, two Jubilee plums and a Morello cherry.

Patti Pinto from Trees of Congleton said: "For some time, we have been keen to plant at Congleton War Memorial Hospital, and I am delighted that our plans for the orchard and hedgerow at the hospital have finally become a reality in this very special 100th anniversary year.

"A big thank you to staff, and all the volunteers who turned up to help plant and the great comments we had from passers-by. The staff and patients have watched us and are so happy to see the planting. They are looking forward to the blossom of the fruit trees enhancing their view each spring."

Deputy Director for Estates and Facilities at East Cheshire NHS Trust, Rob Few, said: "We are extremely grateful for the efforts of the volunteers and for the generosity of Trees of Congleton.

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"Planting trees on healthcare sites improves the areas we live and work in. They provide privacy and seclusion for our staff and patients, help to cool buildings, provide cleaner air and create habitats for native wildlife."