Over 1,200 sapling trees were planted by volunteers at Bay Road Park in Derry on Saturday as part of Derry City and Strabane District Council's Life Project Initiative.

Families, community groups and local businesses participated in the Tree Planting Day event to enhance the local green space. Native species including oak, willow, mountain ash, alder and wild pear were planted.

The Life Project, now in its eighth year, has resulted in more than 10,000 trees planted across Derry and Strabane to commemorate births, deaths, civil partnerships and marriages registered with the council, each marked by a sapling oak tree.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, attended the event. He noted the strong turnout and community spirit, describing the initiative as a way to mark key life moments while contributing to the environment, air quality and community responsibility.

Jean Kelly, proprietor of Eglinton Eyecare, joined with her team to plant 20 saplings for each year of the business's 20-year anniversary, highlighting corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

Council staff provided spades and expert guidance to participants. The planting site, beside Bay Road Soccer, will develop into a woodland area.

The council is seeking public feedback via survey from those who have received saplings through the Life Project. More information is available at www.derrystrabane.com/lifeproject.