Children planted a hawthorn tree at a spot near their homes to brighten up the end of an alleyway.

Pupils at St Barnabas School planted the tree in nearby Cardigan Street in Jericho, Oxford.

Harry Matthews, six, gets digging

Local resident Anna Walczak came up with the idea and approached city councillor Suzanna Pressel who organised the planting.

Cllr Pressel said: "A local resident had the idea of planting a native hawthorn and the city council was happy to supply one. There used to be one there but it grew too big and was cut down. We hope local children, having helped to plant the tree, will keep an eye on it and make sure it flourishes and is not vandalised by older children who want to climb on it."

**Picture: Antony Moore