Wearne Village Diamond Jubilee Celebration Tree Planting
The residents of Wearne, near Langport, gathered together in their village on Sunday 4th November 2012 to celebrate another important event in this Diamond Jubilee year.
Following a very successful street party in June, one of the residents suggested planting a tree to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. This suggestion was warmly received and a significant sum raised through generous donations ensured that a reasonably mature tree could be sourced.
It was important that the tree chosen reflected the local habitat. The residents also wanted something substantial that would provide an immediate impact in the village, as well as providing a striking appearance. A Sorbus Aria Lutescens (more commonly known as Whitebeam or Rowan tree) was chosen, which will offer striking leaves of green and silvery white in Spring, white flowers in Summer and red-orange berries in the Autumn.
Ted David, 98 (the oldest resident of the village) and Dennis Sheppard, 82 (who has lived in the village longer than any other resident – all his life!) both assisted with the planting, whilst children from the village planted daffodil bulbs around the base of the tree. It stands in a prominent position at the Eastern edge of the village, in the centre of a grass triangle, offering visitors to the village as well as the 120 residents a permanent reminder of this historic occasion.
Huish Episcopi Parish Council generously agreed to donate an engraved beige sandstone Tree Marker to ensure the many walkers on the adjacent public footpath can easily see the significance of this tree. Chairman Shirley Nicholas and Clerk Jane Redfearn from the Parish Council showed their support by joining the Wearne residents at the planting ceremony. The Tree Marker will be erected within the next few weeks, but in the meantime a temporary marker has been placed beside the tree.
A toast of mulled cider provided an additional local touch to the celebration, as well as offering some warmth to those attending on this cold November afternoon.
Written by Graham Tulloch
For more images please visit the Gallery
Acknowledgment from Buckingham Palace
