VOLUNTEERS are being recruited to plant trees next month on the League Against Cruel Sports (LACS) flagship Exmoor sanctuary Baronsdown.

The 200-acre nature reserve near Brompton Regis is a protected haven for red deer and other wildlife with hunting and shooting banned.

The league is organising a tree planting day on February 21 as a way for people to ‘give back to nature’, especially if they have made doing so a New Year resolution.

An LACS spokesperson said: “As we step into a new year, many of us are thinking about fresh starts, new goals, and meaningful ways to make a difference.

“I wanted to remind you of the amazing opportunity we have to join us at our flagship reserve, Baronsdown.

“As part of our long-term plan to enhance biodiversity on our reserves, we will be planting native deciduous trees adjacent to a semi-natural ancient woodland.

“Every tree you plant will help strengthen the woodland, provide new habitats for wildlife, and slow run-off from the land into the River Exe, nurturing a richer, more resilient landscape for generations to come.”

Volunteers will be provided with lunch and refreshments and an opportunity to ‘connect with like-minded people who share your passion for making a difference for animals and nature’.

The spokesperson said: “Your time and energy will help turn compassion into action, restoring vital habitats and supporting wildlife. 

“If one of your New Year goals is to do something positive for the planet, this is a wonderful way to start.”

The Baronsdown sanctuary, which was established in 1959, is considered by the league to be the jewel in its crown.

It is one of a number of estates owned by the charity on both Exmoor and the Quantock Hills, which together add up to about 2,000 acres of land.