ONE hundred years ago a generation made an unimaginable sacrifice during the First World War.

Now, more than 100 landowners the length and breadth of the UK have joined with the Woodland Trust to create First World War memorial woods as a lasting tribute, honouring the soldiers who fought. 130 new woodlands have been created, ranging in size from 10 hectares to a tenth of a hectare.

Four of these woods will be in Wales: in Chepstow, at Whitesands near St Davids, Carmarthen and Cardiff.

Claire Martin, First World War programme manager at the Woodland Trust, said: “We’ve been genuinely touched by the stories people have told us about why they wanted to create woodland with us as part of this project. These woods will stand in peaceful tribute for generations to come, helping wildlife to thrive and creating green spaces for reflection and enjoyment.”

The Woodland Trust’s First World War Centenary Woods project is supported by lead partner Sainsbury’s, which is helping to plant millions of native trees through donations from sales of products including woodland eggs, chicken and turkey.

Mike Coupe, chief executive of Sainsbury’s Group: said: “We’re pleased to support such a fitting memorial to those affected by the First World War. It’s important to our customers and colleagues, and commemorative to the many, many colleagues who fell during the First World War.”