Free seeds will be distributed as part of a new conservation program

Residents will be given free packets of seeds and encouraged to join nature walks around Manchester as part of a new scheme at libraries.

Manchester City Council is teaming up with Natural England to set up seed libraries in eight locations across the city and give away seeds to people who sign up.

The council said people “will be encouraged to allow their seeds to grow to maturity and flower, and then collect and return the resulting seeds to the seed library so others can access them.”

The project will also include workshops and guided nature walks from local libraries to Boggart Hole Clough, Highfield Country Park and Wythenshawe Park.

The council said the proposed seeds would be sourced from wildflowers, herbs and vegetables that are easy to grow and meet local biodiversity requirements.

The project has received £10,000 in government funding and aims to help communities build stronger connections with nature.

Councilor John Hacking said: “Libraries are vital public resources that improve the lives of residents and communities.”

He added: “It’s great that we’ve been able to secure funding to enhance the role of libraries in connecting people with nature.”