Trees go red, white and blue for Jubilee

DERBYSHIRE residents, schools, community groups and organisations are being given an opportunity to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee as a council’s free tree scheme returns for another year.

The scheme run by South Derbyshire District Council and the National Forest Company is supporting the Queen’s Green Canopy Project which encourages people to plant a tree to support the Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

The tree choices have been themed red, white and blue to fit in with the Jubilee celebrations. This year’s species are common dogwood, elder, wayfaring and Whitebeam. All the trees have white flowers and red or dark blue berries with some having red stems.

Councillor Kevin Richards, leader of the council, said: “We are delighted to be running this wonderful scheme again. Last year, we gave away over 1,000 trees to residents, schools and organisations and we expect a greater demand this year.

“The splash of red, white and blue is a fantastic touch and it will provide a great a reminder of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee every time they produce flowers and berries for many years to come.“

Households can ask for up to two trees. Schools, organisations and community groups can apply for up to ten.

Trees ordered in October will be available for collection in early December.

Applications can be made online at www.southderbyshire.gov.uk/ freetreescheme or by calling 01283 595795. Applications are now open until midnight on Sunday October 31.