KEIGHLEY MP Kris Hopkins is urging primary schools to take up an offer of free trees.

He says 400,000 British native trees are being made available to schools nationally during the next four years.

Where there is insufficient space within school grounds for planting, help will be provided to find an alternative site.

The Woodland Trust initiative is being backed by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs.

"This is an opportunity to help schools improve their local environment and enable children to learn about nature and the enormous benefits that trees can bring," said Mr Hopkins.

"I would encourage schools to take up this offer to enable them to invest in the future of their community and create their own wildlife area that will provide a legacy and enjoyment for pupils."

Visit woodlandtrust.org.uk/freetrees for more details.

The closing date for applications is September 9.