TREE-HUGGING visitors to Delamere Forest have seen their passion for the environment set a new world record.

The Forestry Commission England has been awarded a Guinness World Record title for the largest tree hug, which saw more than 700 people from Cheshire and beyond wrap their arms around a tree at Delamere for one minute.

The event, which happened in September, was also a celebration of the International Year of Forests.

Teams in America and Nepal have attempted a largest tree hug record but the Delamere session marks the first successful event.

Pam Warhurst, chairman of the Forestry Commission, said: “I am really delighted that we have achieved the world record.

“The tree hug was a fun way for people to get involved with us and share their love for trees and the environment.”

Tree hugging became famous in the 1970s after women in a village in India used the symbolic gesture to protect local trees.

Vernon Stockton, manager at the forest, said: “Congratulations and huge thanks go to all the people who turned up to enjoy the day and share the incredible experience of setting a world record.

“It was absolutely overwhelming to see so many people hugging the trees at Delamere at the same time.

“Special thanks go to Julie Mogan from DTM Legal, Steve Roberts from Delamere Parish Council and Clr Lynn Riley from Cheshire West and Chester Council who witnessed the attempt and also to the many supervisors who contributed to the success of the day.”