A VILLAGE green with trees, a wildflower meadow and a natural play area for children is developing in Appleton since the Lumb Brook Millennium Green was given the go-ahead.

Work started on the former agricultural land near the Lumb Brook bridge last month - and now the trustees are looking for villagers to help create the green.

Trustee and Appleton parish councillor Sandy Watts said: "During October and November we have to plant thousands of trees and bulbs. We have also commissioned an artist to create a living willow sculpture in the form of a huge dragonfly. The wings will be tunnels of willow that the children can play in."

The green will also have side paths and kissing gates giving full access to the disabled and mums and dads with pushchairs and there will be seats and tables to enable everyone in the community to enjoy the green.

Sandy and fellow trustee Julie Kueres said: "At times we felt we would never get here but now we are really excited to see the Millennium Green beginning to take shape. Local people have worked very hard to make this happen."

The Countryside Agency are providing half the funding and WREN have given a substantial grant from the landfill tax. The land has been given by English Partnerships and will be held in trust for the people of Cobbs Estate.

Financial support has also been received from Warrington Borough Council and Appleton Parish Council.

If anyone would like to help they can call Julie on 451 203 or Sandy on 266 127. Some of the trustees will also be available on the Millennium Green at 11am on Sunday, September 23, where copies of the plans will be available and any questions from local residents will be answered.