The Woodland Trust’s Hainault Forest in Romford has received a top award following the planting of more than 10,000 trees over the last few months.

It received the crown in the “Tree and Woodland Planting” category at the London Tree Awards this week, also known as the “Tree Oscars”, which recognise tree and woodland planting on publicly accessible land.

The judging panel were said to be impressed with the scale of the newly-created woodland on greenbelt land, attached to the existing 113 hectare ancient woodland, which will result in improved access for the community as well as expanding wildlife habitat in the capital and helping to fight climate change.

George Lewis, the Woodland Trust’s Hainault Development Officer said:

“This award is shared with the fantastic volunteers who turned up to planting sessions with gardening gloves on, ready to lend a hand with getting the trees in the ground.

“Over 1000 volunteers from across London and further afield helped create this new Forest extension, planting over 10,000 trees! These trees will bring huge benefits, not only for local people but also in expanding the “green lungs” of the capital – as well crucially helping to combat climate change.

“Many thanks to everyone involved, this is an incredible team effort and fantastic that the hard work of everyone involved has been recognised.”

Community groups from near and far helped with the planting over two days, including the Ahmadiyya Women’s community who attended both days and are busy planting 100,000 trees for their 100th anniversary.

Also helping plant were the Minhaj Welfare society, a synagogue, Ahmadiyya Youth and many other locals and local groups. Lloyd’s banking group also did two days of planting.

Hainault Forest is an ancient woodland, home to a wealth of wildlife and plant species, and was once a royal hunting forest, providing venison for the king’s table. Adjoining Hainault Forest Country Park, this wood is just a stone’s throw from London.

The London Tree and Woodland Awards celebrate the work of individuals, communities and professionals to protect, improve and expand the capital’s tree and woodland cover.

The #TreeOscars are organised by the Forestry Commission and supported by the Mayor of London. They aim to raise the profile of London’s trees and woodlands and their need for active management. The awards showcase the fantastic work taking place all over the city to protect and increase London’s urban forest.