Hillingdon kids plant commemorative wood for Queen

A commemorative wood has been planted in Hillingdon to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

All schools in the borough were invited to plant a tree at RAF Uxbridge as part of the scheme as the area seeks to create a cultural legacy from the 60th anniversary of Elizabeth II assuming the throne.

Among those taking part may have been families looking for property to rent in Hillingdon. Oak, maple and hornbeam trees are going to surround a Black Poplar, which is said to be one of the Queen's favourites.

Hillingdon Council leader Ray Puddifoot, said: "This wood will become a lasting legacy for the borough and form part of its rich heritage. This was a wonderful event and one which the children thoroughly enjoyed taking part in. A formal dedication ceremony will take place in the near future."

The site of the wood is close to Uxbridge town centre and plans are underway that will see most of it redeveloped. Adam Norton, residential land director at St Modwen representing VSM Estates - which owns the site along with Defence Estates - remarked: "It was great to see representatives from all the local schools participating in its future with the planting of a wood."

Once the location has been developed, it will be a 45-acre public open space that all residents of the borough will be able to use. A number of events are set to be held across Hillingdon to make the Diamond Jubilee.

A photographic exhibition is being run until July 5th at Uxbridge Library, while the Compass Theatre will screen a full-length colour film that show Elizabeth II being crowned.

As well as this, there are expected to be over 65 street parties organised in the area. These will give communities a chance to come together and celebrate what promises to be a momentous occasion. The local authority has offered to cover the cost of public liability insurance for any gatherings taking place.

Posted by Charles Mackay

Published 30th May, 2012

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