Schools in Moray take part in tree planting initiative to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee
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SCHOOLS and communities in Moray have taken part in a national tree planting initiative to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022.
Pupils from Milne’s and Dyke primary schools have launched a season of planting saplings as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy series of events across the United Kingdom.
Botriphnie and St Gerardine primary schools are also taking part.
Milne’s Primary School head teacher Miss Karam added: “We are delighted to add to our eco garden with these commemorative trees.
"We hope the children enjoy watching them establish themselves over time. The trees will act as a beautiful reminder of this most special of years.
“We are all thankful that these occasions have given us something positive to celebrate during challenging times.”
Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Moray, George McIntyre, joined pupils at Milne’s Primary School, who were marking the occasion alongside their own 175th anniversary.
He said: “It was a pleasure to join the pupils to mark two very special occasions.
"Both milestones are a remarkable achievement and it is great to see our young people make memories of these once-in-a-lifetime moments.
"I thank the school for their warm hospitality on a cold, snowy day."
Dyke Primary School pupils were assisted by Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Moray, John Stuart, Earl of Moray, and his wife, Cathy Stuart, Countess of Moray, who helped plant their sapling grown from a 1000-year-old oak tree at Darnaway Castle.
Mr Stuart said: “This is happening all over the UK and I am so delighted to be involved.
"It’s even more special that I am able to bring this young oak to Dyke Primary School, where my three children attended when they were younger.
“It was great to see the pupils so excited to be involved in the project and Ben Clinch, our Woodlands Manager, did a great job of showing them the best way to plant a tree. They are excited to see how it grows over the coming years.”
Communities have been joining in as well, with Cabrach Community Trust enlisting the help of Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire, Andrew Simpson, in their quest to plant 3000 mixed trees for the occasion.
Mr Simpson said: “Not only was it great to get outside and enjoy the beautiful Cabrach area, it was fantastic to be doing so for an extremely special occasion.
"To be focusing on sustainable planting that will benefit future generations while marking the Queen’s legacy at the head of the nation was a remarkably humbling experience.
“I look forward to seeing Moray and Banffshire’s contribution to the Queen’s Green Canopy grow and flourish over the coming months and beyond.”
Individuals are also encouraged to get involved with the scheme.
