MORE trees have been planted by volunteers in the grounds surrounding a care house at Porthpean, near St Austell.

Five members of the St Austell Rotary Club took part in the tree-planting at Penrice House Residential Home.

Led by Ian Kelly, the volunteers spent a morning planting a variety of trees that will enrich the natural beauty and biodiversity of the extensive grounds.

Clare Rowe-Hall, care manager at the home, said: “The initiative builds on last year’s success when the Rotary club planted 1,000 crocus bulbs at Penrice House, which bloomed beautifully in January.

“This year, the effort is supported by a generous donation from the Woodland Trust, which has provided a wild wood tree pack.

“The new additions are being interspersed among the oak saplings planted last season, courtesy of Bolghen Tree Nursery. Together, these plantings aim to enhance the woodland, which will be maintained and monitored by a dedicated arborist to ensure the saplings thrive.

“Penrice House is also working closely with the Woodland Trust on an ancient tree survey to further preserve the area’s rich heritage. Plans are under way to develop a comprehensive woodland management strategy and secure funding for additional restoration projects.

“The project highlights one of Penrice House’s initiatives aimed at protecting and enhancing the natural environment with the support of organisations like St Austell Rotary Club, the Woodland Trust, and Bolghen Tree Nursery.

“In February, the care home completed the installation of a 54kW solar panel array, significantly reducing reliance on mains electricity and lowering its carbon footprint. This investment underscores Penrice House’s dedication to sustainable energy solutions.

“The home also participated in the G7 Legacy Project for Nature Recovery in 2023-2024, partnering with Cornwall Wildlife Trust to improve woodland habitats on the estate.

“In collaboration with Cornwall College and the Eden Project, Penrice House serves as a case study for landscape design and ecological surveying, contributing to the education and development of future environmental professionals.

“In September, Penrice House committed to transforming a non-arable field into a wildflower meadow, working with the National Wildflower Centre. This project aims to create vital habitats along Cornwall’s coast-to-coast B-Line.”