MALPAS has been given a splash of colour thanks to the planting of a number of wild flower beds around the village.

The idea to plant windflowers around the village has been promoted by the parish council, both as a way of beautifying the village and helping the environment.

John Webb, chairman of Malpas Parish Council, Rachel Williams, Cheshire West and Chester councillor for Malpas and wildflower expert James Thompson have spearheaded the initiative.

Cllr Webb says the idea to plant wildflower beds around the village works well in partnership with CWAC's climate emergency.

He said: "The parish council were really pleased to support the idea of wild flower beds.

"The idea fits well alongside out work to plant more trees.

"So not only do the flowers look really bright and colourful, they also add to natural habitats for insects, particularly bees.

"The parish council, alongside Cheshire West and Cheshire Council, has declared a climate emergency, so anything we can do to make a contribution to improving things is being explored."

He added: "It's about maintaining an ecosystem and it's Malpas doing its bit for the environment."

The wildflowers are planted using a process called hydroseeding, which involves spraying a mixture of seeds and fertiliser onto tilled soil, in this case supported using recycled coffee bean bags.

Cllr Williams meanwhile says the village has wholeheartedly supported the initiative.

She said: "we all worked together so this could happen.

"They've brought a lot of positive comments from residents."

Cllr Webb is also looking at places to plant trees as part of the national Queen's Green Canopy initiative.

He as appealed to anyone with land to get in touch.

"We agreed to find out if there are places around the village where we can support more tree planting, through the Queen's Green Canopy initiative," he added.

"Anyone with land and interest could contact Councillor Morgan Granger, on 07512 202092 or email morgan@buildscapeuk.com"