Ben Lake MP has joined members of staff from National Trust Cymru to plant a blossom tree at Aberporth Community Garden.

The planting is part of National Trust Cymru’s #GwleddYGwanwyn #BlossomWatch campaign and commitment to provide opportunities for more people to connect with nature, beauty and history, wherever they are in Wales. 

As part of the campaign, the conservation charity is working with Members of Parliament and Members of the Senedd across Wales to plant blossom trees in locations of their choice within their constituency or region – helping to develop 'blossom spaces' that respect local setting, spirit of place and bring people and nature together.

Once established, the trees will bloom each spring, bringing the joyful sight of blush-tinted blooms to the nation’s community spaces and encourage a beneficial everyday connection with nature, culture and each other.

Mr Lake said: "I am delighted to be partnering with Aberporth Community Garden and the National Trust ahead of Blossom Watch Day 2023, and to mark the event with a new blossom tree for Aberporth’s community garden.

"Aberporth Community Garden and the Community Fridge are excellent local organisations which use gardening, food growing and food sharing to help individuals learn new skills, support development, and promote health and well-being.

"Outdoor activity and the chance to be close to nature is important for both our physical and mental health. 

"The Heart of the Community projects in Aberporth have been promoting such well-being in the village, and it is always a pleasure to visit and speak with staff, volunteers and the people benefitting from their good work.’

Meg Anthony, National Trust Cymru’s General Manager for Carmarthenshire & Ceredigion said: "Our ambition with the Blossom Watch project is to create spaces that bring people and nature together.

"We hope that the addition of a tree that flowers each spring will further enhance this community garden at Aberporth and bring joy to all that watch it grow."

In Wales, National Trust Cymru cares for more than 45,000 hectares of countryside, 160 miles of coastline as well as some of the finest castles and gardens.