THIS week marks National Trust’s fifth annual Blossom Watch Week, which celebrates the UK’s fantastic spring blossom season.

Although Blossom Watch Week runs from April 20 to 28 this year, The National Trust will be hosting more than 100 events between March and May in collaboration with communities and partners across the country. 

In recognition of the vital homes and habitats that blossom trees provide for wildlife, and their significance to the UK’s spring season, the Trust has vowed to plant four million blossoming trees as part of its commitment to plant and establish 20 million trees across England, Wales and Northern Ireland by 2030. 

Mel Stride, MP for Central Devon and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said: “The UK has a spectacular blossom season, and we are blessed in Central Devon with many fantastic outdoor spaces in which it can be admired.

“The Blossom Watch campaign highlights the excellent work that National Trust is doing to bring blossom back to landscapes across the country, and encourages people to spend more time outdoors.”

This year’s theme is Hanami, which takes inspiration from Japan’s spring blossom season.

Hanami is a world-famous traditional custom celebrated annually, bringing all generations outdoors, boosting tourism and helping people connect with nature.

For more information on Blossom Watch, visit the National Trust website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ .