Between 19 and 21 October, make sure you visit the Red Tower area in Mellieha.

In May, 3,000 trees were destroyed in Mellieha. The public’s reaction was anger, and outrage. Following an appeal made by 34U, a whopping Lm40,000/EUR93,175 was raised to replace them. In October the 3,000 trees will not only be replaced, but another 6,000 will be planted, amounting to 9,000 trees in all.

In a marathon lasting three days, a full programme has also been planned, including guided tours, camping and concerts every night. On Saturday evening Freddie Portelli will perform from 10pm onwards. On Sunday there will also be an Olive Oil Festival. Every school has been invited to bring students to help with the tree planting.

Glenn Bugeja, co-ordinator of the 34U campaign, spoke about why the slogan Saving Trees, Saving Ourselves was chosen. “This event is more than just a fun activity to attend. It’s about our social responsibilities and looking after our national heritage. It is being organised because someone decided to destroy part of our national heritage.”

Come plant a tree between 19 and 21 October and do your bit for the environment. Foresta 2000, the site at Mellieha is managed by the PARC Dept, Birdlife Malta and Din l-Art Helwa.