Celebrating National Tree Week in Bedford Borough

Last week saw National Tree Week and Bedford Borough Council planted some very special trees to mark the occasion, just some of the over 10,000 trees to be planted in Bedford Borough this tree planting season.

In Jubilee Park, 12 UK-grown Japanese cherry trees- or Sakura in Japanese- were planted during National Tree Week. 6,500 Japanese cherry trees are being given to the UK from the Japan-British Society and are being planted across the country in parks, gardens and schools to celebrate Japan's relationship with the UK. The Mayor, the Lord-Lieutenant, and the High Sheriff welcomed a delegate from the Sakura project for the ceremony.

Alongside the Council and the High Sheriff, community groups in Queens Park planted 45 trees near Queens Walk, the footpath that connects the town centre, Queens Park and Great Denham as part of the Queen's Green Canopy.

The final tree in an avenue of lime trees on Goldington Green was also planted during National Tree Week.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said "Across this year's planting season, over 10,000 trees will be planted across Bedford Borough in partnership with volunteer groups, residents, charities, the Forestry Commission and the Forest of Marston Vale.

"It was great to be able to take part in the Sakura planting in Jubilee Park, bringing these beautiful trees to our Borough. Alongside our usual planting programme, we have successfully bid for national funding, and are taking part in projects to celebrate the Queen's Green Canopy that will see at least one tree planted in every ward.

"Trees play an important role in tackling climate change, and are great for our health and wellbeing as well as making our streets look beautiful."

National Tree Week ran from 27 November to 5 December, and is the UK's largest annual tree celebration, organised by the Tree Council.