Bramley apples will be growing in the Allotment Garden at Sandwich Technology School thanks to a tree surgeon.

Mark Jones Tree Surgery, which is based in Eastry, got two Year 8 students to dig in and be the first to join a new scheme.

The project co-incided with National Tree Week, an annual celebration that launches the start of the winter planting season.

Mark Jones said: “Having been in business for over 17 years I am passionate about trees and feel National Tree Week is the perfect opportunity to share with the younger generation all that is special about them. “

“Conservation and preservation of trees is important to us and that is why we are not just offering to care for peoples’ existing trees but to plant new ones.

“For customers who may unfortunately have had to have a tree taken down and do not have the space to replant in their own garden we have identified plots where they can be planted on their behalf so the whole community benefits.”

Mr Jones added that in addition to the gift of a tree he has also pledged two years of maintenance and support. Carol Partridge, head of geography and land based studies at Sandwich Technology School said: “We are always keen for pupils to learn from local experts and the tree will be a great gift for years to come.”