RUBERY residents are being encouraged to get involved with a scheme helping to protect trees.

The Woodlands Trust needs help collecting seeds to ensure Birmingham and its wider area remain a green city for future generations.

The trust is a partner in the UK National Tree Seed Project, which has been set up at Kew's Millennium Seed Bank, and made possible with funding generated from the People's Postcode Lottery.

Tree seeds collected as part of the project will be safely held at the seed bank, forming the UK’s first national collection of tree seeds.

Seeds and associated data can then play a vital role in conservation work to protect UK trees and woodlands, forming insurance against extinction, and providing a resource for research into pests and diseases - such as ash dieback and other threats that face woodlands.

Kay Haw, from the Woodland Trust, said: “This is a wonderful way to play a part in improving our knowledge about the trees in this area.

"At the same time it’s a reason to get some fresh air and exercise, and maybe even brush up your skills in identifying different species."

The Woodland Trust is also looking for enthusiastic volunteers from the area to identify species such as ash, common juniper, Scots pine, common alder, common beech, silver birch and yew.

They will help monitor local ancient woods and collect seeds.

Training and kit is provided, while details of the roles and how to apply can be found on the Woodland Trust website woodlandtrust.org.uk/volunteer.