Swindonians are being urged to make a lasting, living contribution to the future.

As part of the continuing development of the Great Western Community Forest, a new community woodland is being planned for the village of South Marston.

The free, environmentally-friendly fun day to create the woodland will be held on Sunday February 1 at Oxleaze Farm, between 10am and 3.30pm.

Coun Colin McEwan, the chairman of South Marston Parish Council, will officially open the community woodland at 11.30am.

The event will include tree planting, guided walks, environmental activities and children's face painting.

A feast of winter warmers will also be available from the Forest Caf.

The Community Forest will provide a mixture of oak, ash, hazel and other UK species. Participants should take their own spade, wrap up warmly and wear wellies.

The new woodland, once planted, will be part of a bigger development, including access links to and from the village and the continued management of the site.

There will be limited car parking space at South Marston Primary School, so people are advised to walk or cycle, or take advantage of a free minibus, which will run regularly throughout the day from the car park to the tree planting site.

For more information about the forest visit www.forestweb.org.uk