WESTON'S mayor marked the beginning of Big Green Week by planting a new tree in the town today, September 27.

Cllr Sonia Russe planted the first of 10,000 trees to be grown in Weston by the year 2030.

A Scots Pine was placed in the water park, on the seafront, in a bid to help mitigate the devastating effects of climate change. 

Great Big Green Week is a celebration of action on climate change held across the country until October 2.

Mayor Cllr Russe, said: "I am delighted to mark the beginning of Weston Town Council's amazing commitment to plant 10,000 trees in the town.

"It's promoted by our climate crisis working group and I believe we are all aware that planting trees helps to mitigate the impact of climate change.

"These trees will go a long way in helping to achieve carbon neutrality in Weston and North Somerset."

Also at the event was the mayor's consort, David Ray. 

In 2014, a survey revealed that urban trees within Weston have a range of benefits such as reducing air pollution, flooding and increasing wildlife biodiversity.

To get involved with the tree planting initiative, visit Weston tree group to be placed on a mailing list.