MP Nick Smith has planted five trees in Blaenau Gwent as part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy, a forest conservation initiative to mark Her Majesty’s lifetime of service to the Commonwealth.

Rowan trees were planted at Brynmawr Medical Centre and Brynithel Community Centre while Georgetown Primary school and Ystruth Primary school both received a silver birch and a hazel tree found its home at Coed Y Garn school.

Mr Smith also held a drawing competition for primary school children, the winners of which – Layla Powell and Atyia Ilahi (Georgetown), Lexsie Wilstead (Ystruth) and Demi-Lea Presdee (Coed Y Garn) – were on hand to help the Blaenau Gwent MP plant a tree at their schools.

The trees were donated to Mr Smith thanks to a partnership between the Woodland Trust, Sainsbury’s and ITV, which screened the Queen’s Green Planet documentary about this project in April.

Nick Smith MP said: “We’re lucky enough to already be surrounded by trees in Blaenau Gwent but this was a great opportunity to plant a few more in places where I hope they will thrive and be enjoyed for many years to come.

“Thanks to everyone who turned out to help me plant the trees and thank you to all the children who sent me pictures for my competition. They were all great.”

Woodland Trust Chief Executive Beccy Speight said: “We are delighted so many MPs have decided to join us in our bid to plant trees as part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy.

“We all need trees. They are a cornerstone of our landscape and countryside, forming an essential and cherished part of our cultural identity. They are crucial in improving soil health and water quality, reducing carbon, trapping pollutants, slowing the flow of flood water, sheltering livestock, providing a home for wildlife or a space for us to breathe.

“I hope the residents of Blaenau Gwent will enjoy watching them flourish as part of this wonderful legacy initiative.”