A COUNCIL has demonstrated its commitment to cutting carbon emissions by taking part in a tree-planting ceremony.

Members of Chester-le-Street District Council met with representatives of the Great North Forest, near William Terrace, Pelton Fell. They were joined by winners of the council's Dazzling Dwelling Christmas lights competition winners Jean and Victor Cox.

The tree planting was intended to show how the council can still actively engage its tenants in events such as the Dazzling Dwelling competition, but is able to show its commitment to reduce emissions by planting trees to offset the additional emissions.

A council spokesman said: "While planting trees is only a very small part of the solution to climate change, it also improves the local landscape while creating new areas of biodiversity for future generations to enjoy."