AN historic tree-lined boulevard is being restored to its former glory in York.

Holgate Windmill supporters celebrated the planting of trees along the Boulevard in Poppleton Road.

The new trees aim to reinvigorate this historically important area, and are part of a project by Treemendous York to plant 50,000 trees across the city.

The trees, worth £200 each, and donated by Wykeham Mature Plants of Scarborough, were planted by Sleightholme Landscapes at reduced cost.

Treemendous York is a new initiative promoted by City of York Council to promote a healthier and greener city.

It is made up from a number of specialist groups, including the city council, the Woodland Trust, York Environment Forum and Edible York.

A spokesman said: “During restoration of Holgate Windmill large quantities of timber were used, and the planting acknowledges the value of their timber and the pleasure they give while they grow to maturity. They also symbolise the link between the past, the present and the future.

"Eliza Gutch, the last owner of Holgate Windmill, bequeathed the mill to York Corporation in 1930 for the enjoyment of the people of York. The boundary of the Gutch Estate in Holgate was shielded from the industrial area beyond Poppleton Road by a band of trees, and some of the ones along the Boulevard date back to 1840.”