NATURE lovers everywhere are being encouraged to hug more than trees in February.

Staff at the National Arboretum in Westonbirt are hoping that those who have found love in the 600-acre grounds will come forward with amorous anecdotes to prove just what a romantic setting the Arboretum is.

Whether you have enjoyed a first date amongst the National Japanese Maple collection, got engaged in the Acer Glade or had the perfect wedding day in the stunning Great Oak Hall, Westonbirt wants to hear your stories.

In return, the Arboretum is offering Sunday lunch for two at its restaurant, Maples, on February 14, to the winning entry.

Louisa Lockwood, the editor of Westonbirt magazine, will judge the entries.

She said: "I see Westonbirt as the perfect catalyst for love of all kinds. The romance of the trees in their unique setting has led many people to fall in love with the Arboretum itself - let alone other people! And who knows how many canine hearts may have melted here?"

Stories of up to 200 words must be submitted by Thursday, February 11, to the ‘Visiting Westonbirt’ thread on the forum at www.fowa.org.uk Entries will be chosen on Friday, February 12 and the winner notified by email. Terms and conditions will be available on www.fowa.org.uk For more information on the arboretum visit www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt