Eco-warriors at an Epsom school replaced two felled purple plum trees with 11 new trees to raise awareness of environmental wellbeing and put down roots for a greener future last month.
Frim June 2013: Tree planted in memory of suffragette who was killed after interrupting Epsom Derby 100 years ago
Children and teachers at St Martin’s School in Ashley Road, Epsom organised the tree planting project with Epsom & Ewell Tree Advisory Board (TAB) and Woodcote councillor Tina Mountain.
Cllr Tina Mountain with Epsom and Ewell Tree Advisory Board members and St Martin's students
Cllr Mountain, who also represents Epsom Town and Epsom Downs on Surrey County Council, offered £500 from her council allocation for community projects towards the planting.
Students, staff, TAB members and Cllr Mountain celebrated the completion of the project at the school on June 30.
Head teacher Bob Twells explained: “It was horrible seeing the two diseased playground trees being cut down, and the place looked pretty stark without them - so when the Tree Advisory Board offered to help supply replacements, I jumped at the opportunity.”
From July: Makeover planned for Derby Square in Epsom, but concerns raised over tree felling
TAB volunteers planted the 11 semi-mature silver birch trees in two sessions, before handing over control to the school’s ‘eco-warriors’ – a dedicated team of environmentally conscious students – who take turn watering the trees to ensure they survive their first critical summer.
Jennie Moody, the teacher who co-ordinates the team’s activities, said: “It’s very important the children learn the value of trees because it’s their future”.
Cllr Tina Mountain added: “If children grow up in an attractive environment with trees around them they’re far more likely to respect nature. That’s why I’m passionate about trees.”
Cllr Mountain is organising a special summer garden party at her home in The Ridge, Epsom, on July 17 to raise more funds for local tree planting initiatives. For more information call 01372 277066
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