A FREE tree scheme will not only make County Durham greener - it could also win a place in the Guinness Book of Records.

Durham County Council grants are available to pay for planting projects, which are timed to coincide with National Tree Week, the last week of this month.

This year, the national event, organised by the Tree Council, is aiming to be the biggest initiative of its kind in the world.

The county council is urging people to apply for cash to green up their neighbourhoods, and help smash a world record.

The authority hopes to top the 7,667 trees planted across the county last year, and grants of up to £100 are on offer to schools, community groups and parish councils.

County Councillor Don Ross said: "Last year was a record-breaking time for us in County Durham, and this year I hope we can make even more of an effort, and help break the world record.

"The more money we give away, the more trees are planted."

Application forms for the cash are available from Darren McCourt on 0191-383 4076.