Posted on 24th Mar
Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy children joined local dignitaries, including Mark Spencer MP and Bilsthorpe Parish Council chairman Coun Ross Stoneman, to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and plant a tree in her honour.
The tree, an ornamental white-stemmed birch called Snow Queen, has been placed in the centre of the gardens at Bilsthorpe Village Hall.
Ross said: “We have planted the tree to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations and to provide a focal point for local people to come and reflect on Her Majesty’s 70-year reign.
“We are pleased that so many people attended, including our local Scouts, members of the parish council and community, the local school and also Mark Spencer MP.”
Mark added: It is important to mark the Platinum Jubilee and to acknowledge what an important day that will be the diary. It’s great for the school children to be a part of this and to recognise Her Majesty’s amazing 70 years on the throne — after all, it’s unlikely any of us will ever witness anything like this again.”
Pupil Sophie Newton, 9, said: “I have enjoyed being here and I think the tree is really special.”
Hugo Butcher, 10, agreed and said he thought the idea of a tree was a good way to mark the occasion, and good for the planet.
“Planting trees is important because it helps with oxygen levels and the environment,” he said.
“Also, they are good habitat for animals. This is a nice way to remember the day and planting a tree is always good for the environment too.”
Kate Bell, parish clerk, who will look after the tree, added: “I will be staking the tree for support and taking care of watering until it is established. It will be a fantastic place for visitors to take a photograph in years to come.
“We hope the tree will thrive and be here for generations of people to come and see.”
Academy head teacher Samantha Leek added: “It is so important for the school and the local community to work in partnership to provide the best possible opportunities for all members of our wider community. This event further compliments our school curriculum to provide a real life and authentic experience for our pupils and helps our children to understand the significance of the Platinum Jubilee and the celebrations to come.”
