IT was 100 years ago that the newly-created Forestry Commission planted its first trees at Eggesford Forest, as part of its aim to reverse the national decline in woodland.

By 1919, timber needed for the First World War had added to centuries of clearance for agriculture, military endeavours and to build ships and homes.

This left woodland cover in England at only five per cent. A century on and the Commission has more than doubled the woodland cover in England.

To mark the Commission’s centenary, Chulmleigh Academy pupils from Chulmleigh College, Chulmleigh Primary School, East Worlington Primary School and Lapford Primary School were invited to take part in a competition to find 20 pieces of work based on “What Trees Mean to Us”.