Paignton Zoo plant trees to mark Queen's Platinum Jubilee
They're joining others across the UK in creating a legacy to honour Her Majesty's leadership of the nation
Paignton Zoo has planted 29 trees to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee later this year.
Representatives from all of their teams were invited to take part yesterday (10 February).
It was a part of the Queen's Green Canopy (QGC), an initiative that encourages people and organisations across the UK to plant a tree for the Jubilee.
The purpose is to promote the importance of planting sustainably, as well as to create a legacy to honour the Queen’s leadership of the nation spanning 70 years.
The Devon-based Zoo says after the disruptions of the pandemic, they believe that the planting also represents something symbolic; putting down meaningful roots for the future of the zoo, and acknowledging the efforts that staff have made in these challenging times.
Dennis Flynn, the Chief Executive Officer of Wild Planet Trust - the charity that runs Paignton Zoo - said: "The tree planting provides an opportunity for the Wild Planet Trust to humbly and with gratitude honour Her Majesty’s extraordinary service.
"The trees will provide a canopy under which future generations can enjoy nature and in which native species can thrive."
Dennis Flynn - Wild Planet Trust
The zoo, which is recognised as a botanical garden as well as a zoological park, already has an established mix of trees across its 80 acre site.
Catherine Mortimer, Deputy Curator of Botanics, says that these will complement their existing collection, as well as celebrate the monarch in a unique and sustainable way.
"The trees will serve as a visual token of our appreciation for the Queen and will also create new habitats for our native species including birds, bees and insects.
"What better way to honour the Queen’s legacy than to help provide a better future for our local wildlife.
“We have chosen a variety of trees including Whitebeam, wild cherry, and lime. Many of the trees we have selected are quick growing trees, some provide red fruits and some beautiful blossom, such as cherry.
"Hopefully they will delight our visitors with their rich colours and potential to provide both shelter and shade for years to come."
Catherine Mortimer - Paignton Zoo