Diocese of Truro’s Diocesan Environment Officer is calling on people to take part in the second annual Love Your Yew Week.

The special week focuses on yews in churchyards and is a collaboration between Caring for God’s Acre – a conservation charity for Burial Grounds across the UK, and the Ancient Yew Group . It is set to take place from February 9 – 15.

This year the theme is ‘clear beneath the canopy’ where people are encouraged to remove objects found on the ground below the tree’sA church yard with a large tree in the centre. branches, within at least a metre around the tree. This will allow roots, an important part of trees, to thrive.

Anyone who wants to take part can visit the Love Your Yew website and will be sent a certificate to display so the public know there is a special tree present.

Dr Sharon Willoughby, Diocesan Environment Officer, said: “Yew trees are an important part of our sacred landscapes. Some can be very ancient indeed and their resilience provides important habitat and shelter for birds and small mammals.”

Harriet Carty, Director of Caring for God’s Acre, said: “It’s great to have the opportunity to celebrate not only these wonderful trees but also the fabulous volunteers who care for the year after year.”

Chris Knapman, Ancient Yew Group, said: “The British Isles are of international importance for ancient yew trees. The careful management of their surroundings, to prevent physical harm and to preserve their aesthetic value is valuable stewardship.”