Over 40 green-fingered residents of all ages and members of the development team came together on Sunday 26 July to plant the saplings before enjoying their first community BBQ.

The trees, a gift from Elsick Development Company, will grow over the coming decades to form a small section of Chapelton Community Wood, part of 10-acres of green space in the 8,000 home development.

The Duke of Fife, director of EDC, said: “The planting of the woodland is symbolic of the beginnings of a new community here in Chapelton, as these families put down roots in the North East. As the families grow and the community expands so too will the community woodland.

“The space will be a lasting legacy and an area for all local residents and those from neighbouring communities to enjoy, as well as a stable habitat for wildlife.”

Residents of Chapelton will be able to help maintain the recreational woodland, which will feature a variety of tree species, including silver birch, sessile oak, apple and pear as well as wild flowers and grass areas.

Helen Young, Kincardine and Mearns Ranger at Aberdeenshire Council, added: “It is great that the new residents have been given this opportunity to plant trees and get involved in the creation of their community woodland. As it grows and develops the woodland will provide a fantastic area for biodiversity and wildlife interest as well as space for recreation.”