Local pupils in Carrickfergus have turned out to support an event as part of National Tree Week.

National Tree Week is the UK's largest annual tree celebration and takes place from 26 November – 04 December. This marks the start of the winter tree planting season (November to March each year).

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams was joined by pupils from Woodburn Primary School for a tree planting event at the Keeran Moss restoration site.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council was delighted to secure NIEA Environment funding in 2021 to begin restoration works at the Keeran Moss site. RSBP NI is currently working on phase two of the restoration.

Mayor Williams said: "Tree Week marks the beginning of the tree planting season which runs right through to March. I encourage citizens to celebrate trees by getting involved in local tree planting initiatives, or simply get outdoors and enjoy the tremendous trees we already have in the parks & open spaces right across Mid and East Antrim.

"Residents can also consider planting their own tree. We are keen to hear from landowners, community groups, and schools - if you have space for trees on your land, please get in touch to discuss options. If you have a site in mind and some willing volunteers, we may be able to work together to plant more trees."

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The RSPB Northern Ireland Countryside and Land Management Services are working in partnership with MEABC to restore the Keeran Moss site.

NIEA Environment Fund client officer Eimear Reeve commented: "Since 2021 the NIEA Environment Fund has supported Mid & East Antrim Borough Council with grant aid of £161,000 to undertake habitat restoration at Keeran Moss. This investment support has enabled MEABC to work in partnership with the RSPB to restore the biodiversity and hydrology of the site. As a result, the site will - in years to come - be bursting with biodiversities such as dragonflies, breeding birds, newts and flowering purple heather, which can be enjoyed and explored by the local community. There will also be a decrease in carbon emissions from the restored peatland and tree planting, which will play an important role in addressing climate change, and will contribute to NI meeting its climate change targets."

On Thursday 01 December pupils from Roddensvale in Larne also planted trees to begin a new Community Orchard in Larne Town Park - in collaboration with Larne Area Community Support Group. Councillor Donnelly, a teacher at the school, explained: "At Roddensvale we ensure our pupils learn about the environment and how to play their part in combating climate change. Trees are the ultimate carbon capture and storage machines. Like great carbon sinks, woods and forests absorb atmospheric carbon and lock it up for centuries through photosynthesis.

"Trees are good for people and the environment. They improve air quality by producing oxygen, storing carbon, moderating the effects of sun and wind, and cleaning the air by trapping dust, pollen and other pollutants. Trees provide food and shelter for wildlife such as birds, squirrels and invertebrates, as well as for people. We believe in taking a hands-on approach and leading by example."

Pupils from Silverstream Primary School will also be taking part in a tree event at Greenisland Community Orchard – where they will mulch the young fruit trees, providing food and protection for them, which will help them grow and produce more fruit.