SENTINEL readers are being given the chance to make history by naming two community woodlands which are being created to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

Tens of thousands of native British trees are being planted on land off Biddulph Road, between Packmoor and Fegg Hayes, and at Fenpark, near Fenton.

The Woodland Trust project is aimed at leaving a legacy for future generations to enjoy. Sixty new woods, each covering around 60 acres, will begin springing up across the UK this year.

Now The Sentinel has teamed up with Stoke-on-Trent City Council, B&Q and Kier Stoke to run a competition to name the two local woodlands. Two £100 gift vouchers will also be awarded as prizes.

Ecologist Suzanne Wykes, who works for the council, said: "In years to come, these names will be on Ordnance Survey maps."

She joined dozens of people who braved sub-zero temperatures on Saturday to begin planting near Fegg Hayes. A contractor will complete the work over the next few weeks.

Thomas and Marcia Litherland, who live in nearby Greenway Avenue, on the Wedgwood farm estate, planted several oak trees at the community day.

Marcia, aged 57, said: "It's particularly nice because we have a bird's-eye view of the site from the bedroom window."

Three-year-old Dusty Coleman, from Withington Road, Fegg Hayes, was one of the youngest volunteers. She said: "I planted two trees. It was difficult."

Her father, Craig, a 35-year-old nursery nurse, added: "It's going to be beautiful when the woodland grows."

Retired teacher Doreen Bradbury can also see the site from her house, in Biddulph Road, Chell Green.

The 80-year-old said: "I've planted some oak, hawthorn and dogwood. I've done about seven trees.

"But gardeners say you don't plant for yourself; you plant for future generations.

"I think the woodland is a great idea. I had been worried they were going to build on the land."

A similar community tree planting day takes place at Fenpark on March 3. The trees will include dogwood, silver birch, oak, ash, golden rose, cherry and hazel.

Councillor Janine Bridges, cabinet member for city services, today urged people to get involved by entering the naming competition for the two woodlands.

She said: "We want really creative and imaginative entries that bring to mind the occasion and the city's heritage. We're looking for names that will evoke the spirit and essence of Stoke-on-Trent."

Martin Tideswell, assistant editor of The Sentinel, said the judges would be looking for names that "stand out from the crowd".

He added: "This is a fantastic opportunity for residents to play their part in the history of Stoke-on-Trent."

Georgina McLeod, project head of the Woodland Trust, said: "In just 10 years, the trees will be taller than the average person and the woodland will be full of wildlife for many people to enjoy.

"Hopefully, the naming is just the start of their relationship with the woods."

People can enter at www.stoke.gov.uk/diamondwoodcompetition or telephone 01782 234567 to request a paper copy of the entry form.