School children could reap the benefits from learning how to grow and look after fruit trees under a new free initiative.

Watford Borough Council and environmental company Veolia have joined forces to launch a campaign, which will give schools and children the opportunity to grow some of their own fruit.

Chosen schools will receive trees accompanied with an information pack on how to plant them and harvest the fruit.

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Schools have until July 8 to apply online at www.veolia.co.uk/veolia-orchard. Successful schools will be informed from Monday, July 18.

Deliveries will take place during September and October.

Watford Mayor Peter Taylor said: "We're so proud to be involved with this fantastic initiative, which offers young people the chance to get closer with nature, enhance local biodiversity and help to combat climate change.

“It is more critical than ever that young people are given the knowledge and skills needed to care for the planet and this initiative does exactly that. I hope that lots of eligible schools apply and get involved."

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