BOTANIST David Bellamy has launched a Christmas gift card campaign for the County Durham Foundation by planting a tree in a community garden.

He got busy with a spade in the grounds of Montalbo Primary School, in Barnard Castle, to plant a small fir tree which the pupils will watch as it grows.

The foundation has created a gift shop which allows individuals and companies to help their local communities by sending personalised cards and gifts. They range from football kit for a village team at £10 to a down payment on a flat for a homeless person.

Professor Bellamy said: "It's absolutely fabulous the work which the County Durham Foundation does. I've had the pleasure of working with them on many occasions, and each time they impress me with how they help people in their area.

"The Christmas gift card scheme is an ideal way to contribute something to your own local community and to buy a gift for those you care about during the festive season."

Gifts are split into four categories: children and young people; education and learning; isolated people; and strong and healthy communities.

Prices range from £5 to more than £500, and gifts can be seen and ordered at www.cdfgiftshop. org.uk/

Gillian Stacey, chief executive of the foundation, said: "It is never easy to decide what to buy people for Christmas. This year you can choose a gift which you know will make both you and the recipient feel great, as well as helping people less fortunate than you in the community. So everyone's a winner."