From tiny acorns grow mighty oaks!

Muddy boots and big smiles! Jack and Lola Heard will never forget the time they joined the Burrows Rangers, and Marion Fanning from the Friends of Kenwith Valley group, to plant two trees they reared from acorns found on the Tarka Trail.

The brother and sister duo regularly join mum Stephanie, dad Phil and Nani to walk and explore the Tarka Trail between Great Torrington and Bideford. With Nani's encyclopaedic knowledge of plants and trees, Jack and Lola love nothing better than collecting bits and pieces of nature they find along the trail. It was just outside of Great Torrington that Jack stumbled across two acorns, one of which was rather mouldy! Once safely stashed away the acorns were transported home and planted into two pots; but it wouldn't be long before the saplings would outgrow their pots and need a new home.

It was time to contact Torridge District Council where the Northam Burrows Rangers were on hand to suggest the Kenwith Valley Nature Reserve as a good site for the trees. Tree planting is an incredible way for the younger generation to connect with nature and the Rangers were really impressed with Jack and Lola's attitude to get stuck in and help plant the trees.

Torridge can report that the love for nature continues to this day at the Heard household. Jack and Lola are now growing lemon trees, apple trees, orange trees and pumpkins. The orange trees are proving a little difficult to grow. Let's hope the pumpkins are ready for Halloween!

Torridge District Council's Lead Member for Climate Change, Councillor Peter Hames, said:

 "Jack and Lola's enthusiasm and awareness is truly inspirational! They are both great role models in recognising the importance of nature. The planting of trees helps to combat C02 emissions making the air cleaner for humans and wildlife. Re-connecting woodland habitats and planting appropriately is one simple way to increase the diversity and function of our countryside. It will be lovely for both to walk through the valley and pick out the great oaks they planted together! Well done Jack and Lola!"

The Burrows Rangers run volunteer events throughout the year to help take care of this wild and beautiful spot. If you are interested in getting involved contact them on 01237 479708 or email: northam.burrows@torridge.gov.uk.

Photo: L - R: Marion Fanning, Jack and Lola