Local MP Alan Mak has joined Major Tim Peake CMG, Britain’s first Astronaut to complete a space walk, to launch the Ems Valley Memorial Arboretum.
The project, which is situated on a six-acre site on Hampshire Farm Meadows in Emsworth, is the brainchild of local resident Brendan-Gibb Gray.
As a patron of the Arboretum, Major Peake gave a short speech before planting the first tree in the ground at the site, flanked by dozens of members of the community. The first tree planted by Major Peake was in memory of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
The project also forms part of the Queen’s Green Canopy project, which Her Late Majesty wished to commence in her Platinum Jubilee year.
Mr Mak gave a short speech to local onlookers, praising the work of Brendan Gibb-Gray and highlighting the importance of the project as a place to remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones and friends in a way that is in keeping with the needs of the local environment.
The Arboretum project aims to plant 250 trees over the course of the next five years, and is continuing to fundraise. Members of the public who wish to contribute should contact Brendan on 01243 377355.
Local MP Alan Mak said: “I am delighted to support this important community project which is serving both as a lasting legacy of lost loved ones and friends who we hold dear in this community, and as a way of enhancing our environment. I want to thank Brendan, Tim and the community for their support.”
