The restoration of a popular tree-lined avenue got underway this week with the planting of new trees.

Major plans were revealed last year to formally restore Broad Avenue in Cirencester Park for the first time in 200 years with the trees fast coming to the end of their lives.

Phase one of this restoration project began in September, with the felling of 29 aged and diseased Horse Chestnuts that lined the first section of the Broad Avenue from the top of Cecily Hill.

The second phase of the project commenced on Monday with the planting of 40 Small Leaved Lime Trees, an indigenous British species that boasts many benefits and advantages over Horse Chestnuts.

The new Small Leaved Lime trees have been personally selected by Lord Bathurst from Hilliers nursery, with expert guidance from the Bathurst Estate’s Head of Forestry, Keith Mills.

As part of the project, representatives from schools, the Cirencester Community Development Trust, the church,councils will also be involved in planting the new trees to leave a community legacy.

On Thursday, Lord and Lady Bathurst were joined by Lord Apsley, and pupils and representatives from Kemble Primary School, Siddington Primary School and Deer Park School to plant some of the 40 Small Leaved Lime Trees

Thanks to Paul Nicholls who captured the action.