A TREE expert from Ellesmere has praised the success of a Facebook group he set up to act as a distraction to billions of people sent inside from the coronavirus pandemic.

Rob McBride, who judges trees for an international competition, says he was inspired to set up the submission group for people to share their favourite views across the globe.

And with pictures posted from America to New Zealand and inbetween, Rob admitted he was delighted with how it turned out.

"Folks are under exceptional restrictions," he said. "That is where the inspiration came from. I wanted 'communitrees' across the globe to take a look outside their windows, appreciate their special trees.

“Maybe with people who may not be able to get their daily fix if exercise and well being. One lady has told me her tree is a tree sheet looks at, goes to, visits under when her depression arrives, it calms her mind.”

Trees have posted from all over the world, with Rob adding: "Others too say similar.

"The famous artist Dan Llywellyn Hall has painted wonderful #TreesFromWindows in Llanfyllin.

"Yesterday, Belgian national radio had a piece about Trees From Windows idea.

"One lady sent in the Anne Frank tree and her words from her famous diary describing the famous Chestnut she viewed while hiding from the Nazis.

"The words are magnificent example for our growing group.”

To join the group, head to www.facebook.com/groups/2633794110063160/about/