ANCIENT tree cuttings dating back to the time of Christ were given away to local churches, schools and community groups in a special service to mark the coming of the new Millennium.

Children from St Lewis's RC Primary School were presented with cuttings of the trees at The Mersey Forest offices, Risley Moss, on Friday last week

Assistant Bishop of Liverpool, Rt Rev James Roxburgh, and Archdeacon of Warrington, the Ven David Woodhouse, led the service.

Assistant Bishop Roxburgh said: "Pollution, destruction, and the threat of extinction face many species across the planet and in our own land. By planting a tree, which could last for millennia, we are expressing hope in the future."

The tree may also have more than just symbolic significance. It produces a substance called taxol which is being tested as a possible help for cancer sufferers.

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