More than 50,000 trees have been planted across a town during the past five years, exceeding expectations and providing rewarding work for volunteers.
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust wanted to plant trees across 494 acres (200 hectares) – but 568 acres (230 hectares) have been covered, with more trees still to come.
High demand has led to trees being planted in some unused allotments which are prone to flooding.
The wildlife trust and Swindon Borough Council worked together on the Great Western Community Forest and Swindon Forest Meadows projects, launching Trees for Climate five years ago.
'New confidence'
Karl Scaplehorn, who began volunteering with Swindon Forest Meadows, said: "I joined the wellbeing group five years ago.
"It's very rewarding, I've learned new skills, gained new confidence and the people are great. It's good to be out in nature. I'd recommend it."
The rewards for volunteer James Pitter include a boost to his career. He graduated with a degree in wildlife biology last year and has now secured a job working on bat ecology.
"Employers wanted practical experience and skills," he said.
"I've learned new skills and got more experience. I've been involved in tree planting, I've managed people, worked on infrastructure like paths and fences and cleared habitats."
