3,000 trees and shrubs were delivered this week to the Harbour Office at Itchenor, with at least a further 7,000 to follow over the season. All these will be planted in the next few months as part of the Conservancy's annual tree planting programme. All the plants are native species and include Oak, Hawthorn, Hazel, Field Maple, Blackthorn and Holly.

Other trees and shrubs will be planted to infill areas of hedgerows around the AONB. The plants which are sourced from a Sussex company will be planted by Harbour Rangers, volunteers and contractors. Volunteers from the Friends of Chichester Harbour and the Chichester Conservation Volunteers will be helping to plant many of the trees as part of their weekly work parties. Nicky Horter, AONB Officer said, 'we are going to be working hard this winter to get these trees in the ground, but the results are very satisfying for everyone involved. New areas of woodland and hedgerows really add to the naturalness of the harbour and provide new areas for wildlife.'

Anyone wanting to help the Friends of Chichester Harbour with the planting work should contact the Harbour Office on 01243 512301.