The new forest, which will be in either the Midlands or north England, is expected to be between 200 and 600 square miles.

It will focus on supporting healthy communities, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said.

It will be one of three new national forests in England which Labour pledged to establish in its manifesto.

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On Monday, the department announced the Government had committed up to £7.5 million over a five-year period to support the forest and called for delivery partners to submit bids to help deliver the new project.

The funding forms part of the Government’s commitment to invest more than £1 billion this parliament in tree planting and to support the forestry sector.

The first of the new forests was announced in March last year, stretching from the Cotswolds to the Mendips in the west of England.

Planting has already begun here, with the project expected to see more than 20 million trees planted across Bristol, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Somerset by 2050, the department said.

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Another new forest has been planned for the Oxford-Cambridge (OxCam) corridor.

Nature minister Mary Creagh said: “In our manifesto we promised three new national forests, and after the Western Forest and the OxCam arc forest we’re looking for England’s newest forest in the Midlands or North.

“Too many communities can’t access the green spaces that benefit mental and physical health.

“This new national forest will help change that, and I encourage every eligible organisation with the vision and expertise to come forward.”

Officials said the forests would boost communities and drive economic growth, while enhancing nature and bringing trees and woodlands closer to where people live.

Sarah Girling, who lived in Henley, died at her home on May 4.

An inquest was opened into the 59-year-old teacher’s death at Oxfordshire Coroner’s Court by area coroner Nicholas Graham on May 19.

According to the inquest documents, Ms Girling was found deceased with no lifesaving opportunities. Her cause of death remains under investigation.

The case was adjourned for a full inquest to take place at Oxfordshire Coroner’s Court on August 18 at 2pm.

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In a post on the Henley Rowing Club website, it said: “Sarah was a much-loved member of Henley Rowing Club – a lively, supportive and generous presence both on and off the water.

“She was always a pleasure to row with, always ready with encouragement, and always happy to share her knowledge and passion for the sport with others.

Sarah Girling (Image: Henley Rowing Club)

“At Henley Rowing Club, Sarah enjoyed success at many regattas, including two gold medals at the British Masters Championships and a memorable victory at Henley Masters Regatta – achievements of which she was immensely proud.

“She deeply valued the community and friendships she found at HRC, and in turn became an important part of the fabric of the club itself.

“Her trademark beaming smile, positivity and constant support of others carried both her and her crews through many demanding moments over the years.

“She will be greatly missed by everyone who had the privilege to know and row alongside her.”