Plant a tree for VE Day – free fruit trees for 80th anniversary

To promote environmental sustainability and improve community engagement Harborough District Council is giving away apple, cherry, pear and plum maiden trees.  

By providing fruit for the future the council aims to encourage greener neighbourhoods, support local food production and is contributing to the fight against climate change.

Trees are proven to improve air quality, reduce urban heat and support local wildlife.

This initiative also serves as a tribute to the 80th anniversary of VE Day, honouring the sacrifices made during World War II and celebrating peace and community spirit.

Details of trees available for collection are as follows:

• Friday 14 March: From 9am, 1,200 trees, at Lutterworth Leisure Centre and 500 trees in Mitchell Grove, Scraptoft

• Friday 21 March: From 9am, 1,200 trees at Lutterworth Leisure Centre and 500 trees in Mitchell Grove, Scraptoft

The trees are bare-rooted and need to be planted within 24 hours of collection.

One tree can be collected per person. No appointment is required.

More dates and locations for tree giveaways will be announced soon, which will include Market Harborough. This will ensure that all residents have the opportunity to collect and plant a fruit tree.

This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus