Schools are being encouraged to take part in the scheme

The Woodland Trust charity is planting 33 new woods around the UK.

Each wood will represent the 33 ships in Nelson's fleet and the tens of thousands of trees, including 50,000 oaks, cut down to build the vessels.

Britannia Wood will be planted near Dartmouth, Conqueror Wood near Torbay and Minotaur Wood near Falmouth. The trees will be planted in November.

Tree heritage

The Woodland Trust said Nelson himself acknowledged the importance of trees to the success of the British Navy, writing to Parliament in 1803, calling for more trees to be planted to safeguard woodland.

Schools are being encouraged to get involved with the scheme and the tree plantings.

Spokesman Andy Beer said: "We want to get people thinking about just how pivotal timber was, not only to the navy but in everyday life.

"Involving children in planting trees is a great way of giving them the chance to make a difference to their landscape whilst learning about trees and their heritage."