Partnership working: Blind Mr Haixa scales a tree with the help of Mr Wenqi, so that he can find fresh cuttings to plant in the ground

'I am his hands,' said blind Mr Haixia. 'He is my eyes. We are good partners.'

The 53-year-old was born with congenital cataracts which left him blind in his left eye.

Then in 2000, due to a work accident, he also lost the sight in his right eye.

Mr Wenqi, also 53, lost both arms in an accident when he was just three-years-old.

In 2001, unable to secure work elsewhere, the eco-warriors leased a large stretch of the river bank from the local government in a bid to plant trees for future generations.

The proud pair also hoped to earn a modest income from their work from government funding and help protect their village from flooding in the process.

Each day the dedicated pair leave their home at 7am armed with only a hammer and iron rod.

Before they can start their work Mr Wenqi has to carry his blind companion across a fast moving river.

Without money to buy saplings, they then have to collect cuttings.

This is no easy task and involves Mr Haixa scaling large trees.

Without the use of his eyes, he is guided by his armless companion as he hauls himself through the branches.

Back on solid ground, he then creates a hole and plants the new shoot.

It then becomes Mr Wenqi's job to water the saplings.

It hasn't been fast work, but now the three hectare site is covered with trees that attract a large number of birds.

In total the duo believe they have planted 10,000 trees in a decade and have no plans to stop.

'Though we did not accomplish much in a dozens years, we recognize our effort,' said Mr Haixia.

Mr Wenqi added: 'We stand on our own feet. The fruits of our labor taste sweeter. Even though we are gnawing on steam buns, we find peace in our hearts.'