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Oak trees to deliver 2012 legacy for future

Release Date: 20 September 2012

With the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games shining a light on the nation, 2012 has been an exciting year. Whilst these major events have come to a close, 30 oak trees are being planted in Stroud district to mark the year.

Councillor Roger Sanders, executive member for regeneration for Stroud District Council, said:

'Whilst the three main events of the year have now passed, the legacy of 2012 will live on for many hundreds of years in our district. Earlier in the year all parishes and towns were offered an oak tree to plant to commemorate the year and the Diamond Jubilee.'

27 parish and town councils took up the offer, with some opting for more than one tree. Stroud District Council's neighbourhood wardens delivered the trees across to the various locations across the district.

Councillor John Jones, chairman of Whitminster Parish Council, which received two trees, said:

'We will be planting our trees at the end of October on the village playing field, when the planting season gets under way. The parish council will also be providing a plaque which will show that the trees were planted to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II.'

Brian Whatling, vice-chairman of Cam Parish Council, said:

'We received two trees. One has appropriately been planted on the Jubilee Playing Field, which took its name from the Queen's Silver Jubilee, and the other in a prominent position at Hopton Green, where it is replacing an ailing horse chestnut tree. Both will provide a lasting and pleasing reminder of the events of 2012.'

The offer of a tree was also taken up as a community project in Paganhill, Stroud where residents and organisations including the Down to Earth Co-operative, Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and building contractor Lovell's helped with digging, composting and planting the tree in Duderstadt Close.

Charlotte Galling, Stroud District Council's community development officer, said:

'Planting and nurturing an oak tree is a great way to bring the community together. Along with their neighbourhood warden, local children who take part in Play Gloucestershire activities at Archway Gardens will be looking after and watering the tree. Learning about nature and having pride in watching the tree flourish will leave a beautiful long-term legacy for the area.'

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