A new area of woodland is to be created to extend Epping Forest.

The 30 acres plot will be named Gifford Wood after the Late Lord Mayor of London, Roger Gifford will be in Upshire.

The City of London Corporation, which runs Epping Forest, is looking for volunteers to help plant the area on Saturday.

Hawthorn, hazel and spindle shrubbery will be grown alongside the 2,000 new trees which children from Upshire School made a start to planting last week.

The saplings are mixture of 11 species more tolerant of projected changes in climate including birch, alder and rowan.

Those wanting to take part can meet at Upshire Village Hall, Horseshoe Hill between 11am and 1pm.

Staff from the City Corporation’s Epping Forest Team will be on hand as will members of the Friends of Epping Forest.

Volunteers will also be able to enjoy a new trail through the area and adjacent portion of the forest.

For more information call 020 8532 1010, email  epping.forest@cityoflondon.gov.uk or visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/giffordwoodappeal