Memorial Oak Tree for Queen Elizabeth II

Memorial Oak planted for Queen Elizabeth II

This weekend the Parish Council planted an Oak sapling in memory of the late Queen on the village Recreation ground (Rec). The location was chosen after a public poll on the Council's website and the Rec won 48% of the vote. Flowers laid in the village square for the Queen's funeral have been composted and will be used to mulch the tree to give it a wonderful start and make it truly part of village life for many years to come.

Three Parish Councilors, Nicki Peach, Ray Peach and David Conquest volunteered their time to plant the Oak in the Rec near the wildflower meadow. Eventually, it will look out over the village and the hills beyond, including to the horseracing stables that Her Majesty loved to visit.

Councillor David Conquest said, "This is a fitting tribute to the Queen that will remind villagers of her link to Kingsclere for many years into the future. The sapling is protected against wild animals but for the time being, while it is still young and vulnerable, we chose to keep it somewhat hidden from view behind the wild growth. We want to give the young tree every opportunity to grow and flourish."

A commemorative plaque will be installed in due course.

Photos - Simon Wilkes, David Conquest