Vitax has made a long term commitment to supporting The National Forest, one of England’s most ambitious environmental projects.

 

Covering a 200 square mile area across parts of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire, the project is a ‘forest in the making’ – blending ancient woodland with new tree planting schemes to create a new national forest in one of the least wooded parts of the country.

 

Explaining the company’s decision to support The National Forest, Vitax Chairman Paul Gooding said that, as a business that has been involved with the UK gardening and horticultural markets for over 100 years, Vitax places a high priority on protecting, nurturing and respecting the environment.

 

“Based as we are at Coalville, right in the heart of The National Forest area, it makes perfect sense for us to become a long-term sponsor and supporter.”

 

When it comes to woodlands, the UK is the poor relation in comparison to other European countries.  Woodland coverage in the UK is about 12% compared to a European average of 44%.

 

“Vitax involvement will lead to the planting of thousands of trees to create new woodlands and will contribute to redressing this deficiency,” said Mr Gooding.

 

Sophie Churchill, Chief Executive of the National Forest Company said they were delighted to welcome Vitax as a sponsor. “Based in The National Forest, Vitax will be an invaluable partner as we continue to create the new forest, planting new trees, creating new habitats and looking after the woodlands and new landscapes as we progress.

 

“Gardening products are so important to millions of people across the country and I know that a lot of Vitax customers will have a natural affinity with the creativity and environmental benefits of the forest – from our back gardens to the 200 square miles of The National Forest, it’s all about wildlife, beauty and something for future generations.”