Kingsclere Parish Council plant oak tree in memory of Queen Elizabeth II

An oak tree has been planted in Kingsclere in memory of Queen Elizabeth II.

Three Kingsclere parish councillors, Nicki Peach, Ray Peach and David Conquest, planted the oak sapling on the village Recreation Ground near the wildflower meadow last weekend.

Flowers laid in the village square for the Queen’s funeral have been composted and will be used to mulch the tree.

Mr Conquest said: “This is a fitting tribute to the Queen that will remind villagers of her link to Kingsclere for many years into the future.

“The sapling is protected against wild animals but for the time being, while it is still young and vulnerable. We chose to keep it somewhat hidden from view behind the wild growth.

“We want to give the young tree every opportunity to grow and flourish.”

The 'rec' was chosen as the planting location after 48 per cent of voters picked it in a public poll on the Kingsclere Parish Council website.

A commemorative plaque will be installed by the tree in due course.

Once the tree has grown, it will look over the village and hills beyond, including to Andrew Balding’s Park House Stables which the Queen used to visit.