MORE than 500 hazel, thorn and oak trees have been planted at Burlish Top nature reserve near Stourport.

The reserve, acquired by Wyre Forest District Council in 2018, has been given a new lease of life by local rangers in an effort to provide a better home for wildlife.

The council's Ranger Service and Young Rangers worked together to plant the trees on Sunday, February 10 to form a natural barrier around part of the reserve.

District and county councillor Chris Rogers funded the project through his divisional fund.

Cllr Rogers said: "I am pleased to help fund the Ranger Service project at Burlish Top.

"One reason the fund was created is to support the environmental wellbeing of the local area, which this project will certainly deliver on.”

Cllr Juliet Smith, cabinet member for culture, leisure and community protection, added: "The Ranger Service, alongside our brilliant Young Rangers, plays an important role in maintaining the district’s many nature reserves and I hope families will continue to spend time at Burlish Top for years to come.”