Park's diseased trees are replaced

Pictured, from left, are Gill Welham, Bob Holland, Peter Smith (all Greensand Trust), Clive Beckett (former Central Beds Council countryside sites manager), Trevor Smith and Lyndsey Bignell (both of Central Beds Council).

The avenue, which was once part of the entrance to Stockgrove House, now forms a key part of the entrance experience to the popular park in Heath and Reach.

Originally made up of horse chestnut trees, which sadly succumbed to disease, the new avenue now features small-leaved lime and rowan trees.

Officers from Central Bedfordshire Council – who jointly own and govern Rushmere Country Park with the not-for-profit Greensand Trust – joined volunteers from the environmental charity to plant the new trees, which are available for sponsorship.

“The new avenue includes small-leaved lime and rowan trees, with the rowans providing colour and form while the slower-growing limes mature,” said Peter Smith, chairman of the Rushmere Governance Group and the Greensand Trust.

Central Bedfordshire Council Executive Member for Community Services, Cllr Brian Spurr, said: “One of the council’s priorities is enhancing Central Bedfordshire and this conservation project certainly does that by creating a landmark feature for future generations.

“We hope that it provides a wonderful welcome to the 400-acre park, which holds ancient woodland, wildlife areas, lakes and many guided routes for walkers, dog walkers, horse riders and everyone who enjoys the green, open spaces of Bedfordshire’s countryside.”

> If you are interested in sponsoring one of the avenue trees, whether in memory of a loved one, to mark a special occasion or as a business, contact Jon Balaam, the Greensand Trust’s director of development, on 01234 744592 or via email at: [email protected].