2022 marks the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee; the first time a British Monarch will have served for 70 consecutive years. We are planning a number of events over the extra bank holiday weekend in June (Thursday 2nd – Sunday 5th June) but we are starting our celebrations this weekend contributing to the national ’Queen’s Green Canopy‘. This is a unique tree planting initiative created to mark the year which invites people from across the United Kingdom to “Plant a Tree for the Jubilee”.

Everyone from individuals to Scout and Girlguiding groups, villages, cities, counties, schools and businesses are being encouraged to play their part to enhance our environment by planting trees during the official planting season.

With a focus on planting sustainably, the QGC will encourage planting of trees to create a legacy in honour of The Queen’s leadership of the Nation, which will benefit future generations.

We are doing our bit by funding a new ‘Crown Copse’ in Collett Park; a new planting of twenty one trees at the east end of the park. The trees are going to be planted by the people of the town in the seven age groups of her 70-year reign; under 10s, 10-20, 20-30 etc. Starting at 10.30am this Saturday, all trees are due to be planted by 1pm but will hopefully last a lifetime!

Many thanks to Angela Morley from the Shepton Horticultural Society for organising this activity!

Until next time,

Matt Harrison, Chair, Shepton Mallet Town Council