YOUNGSTERS in Bolton have been helping to break a world record - by planting as many trees as they can in three days.

And they had some VIP help when MPs David Crausby and Brian Iddon came to town to lend a hand,

Mr Crausby was at Oxford Grove County Primary, Shepherds Cross Street, where pupils were taking part in the Guinness Book of records attempt to break the record of the most native species of trees planted.

And it was part of a continuing effort by the MPs who two years ago took part in the "Constituency Oaks" initiative when they planted native oaks in the town as part of the "Trees of Time and Place" campaign.

And while Mr Crausby was getting his hands dirty at Oxford Grove, across town at St Michael Church of England Primary, Green Lane, Mr Iddon was helping the pupils with their environment project.

The youngsters have been developing the school grounds into an amazing woodland, wetland and wild flower area complete with paths and seats.

Headmistress Janet Westwell said the children had transformed the grounds with the help of urban wildlife officer Paul Sadler.

She said: "We are able to use the gardens in our lessons. We will be planting trees and bulbs this week and the gardens should look beautiful in the summer."