SCHOOLS and community groups in the Keighley district are once again being offered free trees.

The Woodland Trust has launched its annual saplings giveaway.

Applications are now open for tree packs to be delivered next spring.

It comes after the charity this year distributed a record 1.3 million trees, to nearly 9,000 schools and groups.

Senior project lead Vicki Baddeley says: "This year our communities have really felt the impact of climate change first hand, and many are seeing the incredible benefits trees can bring.

"By offering the free packs, we aim to equip our schools and communities with a simple yet mighty tool to combat the effects of climate change as well as provide ever more vital food and habitats for wildlife.

"The desire to plant trees is growing all the time and we expect demand for our free saplings to be even greater this time out.

"There will be 600,000 saplings up for grabs in the spring and I've no doubt they will go quickly.

"I would advise any interested groups to apply sooner rather than later."

The scheme is funded by Sainsbury's, Lloyds Bank, Ovo Energy, DFS, Joules, Bank of Scotland and Sofology.

To apply, visit woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/schools-and-communities.