A MEMORIAL to remember fallen soldiers will receive a make-over after a generous donation of trees was given to Hagley Parish Council.

The council has been handed 30 trees from The Woodland Trust – including silver birch, rowan and wild cherry trees – which will be used to update the Hagley War Memorial.

It is hoped two of the wild cherry trees will be planted by local primary school children at the War Memorial ahead of Armistice Day on Friday, November 11.

Chairman Councillor Steve Colella said: "We are very proud to be able to support this initiative as well as enhance the Hagley War Memorial.

"Each year we lay wreathes at the memorial and at the service at St John’s Church the Hagley, Blakedown and Churchill roll of honour is read out.

"This is a fitting way to remember the fallen from Hagley from two World Wars."

Some of the remainder of the trees will be used to form a memorial avenue at the parish cemetery, with the council aiming to dedicate a tree to every name on the memorial.

Joint Lead Councillor for Environment Beryl Sryrotiuk added: "Planting trees now will be another permanent reminder of the sacrifices made by many young men from Hagley."

Remaining trees will be planted around the area after agreement from the council.