Geulder Rose Trees planted at Shaw House marking the start of the Ukrainian war

A poignant ceremony marking the start of the Ukrainian War was observed at Shaw House on Wednesday.

Geulder Rose Trees were planted in commemoration of the beginning of the ongoing conflict with Russia.

The Guelder Rose is one of the country’s national symbols and it bears vibrant red fruits in autumn and winter and delicate white blooms in spring and summer.

The symbol features in rituals, songs, and traditional Ukrainian embroidery.

A total of 25 Geulder Trees were planted which, in time, will grow to become a crescent shaped hedge within the Shaw House Community Garden.

Tears of remembrance were shed by attendees as council leader Lynn Doherty recited ‘Tree’s’, a Ukrainian poem by Halyna Myroslava.

“Antennas whiskers, Sprout through the skin, of the great earth like Noah, Ark has been gone through the flood,” she read.

“into the new Beginning, Profiles remaining on, Each single leaf forehead, Willing to hug you and uplift you”

Listeners turned to the skies to photograph the perfectly timed colours in the sky as children tied yellow and blue ribbons on each of the trees.

A moment of silence was observed.

The group then sang the Ukrainian national anthem as they held hands, linked arms and remembered their home in a touching tribute.

Chairman of West Berkshire Council Rick Jones and Lynne Doherty planted two of the trees and Mr Jones said: “We can barely imagine the pain [Ukrainian guests] have endured.

“West Berkshire has provided a place of safety and today we stand together.

“West Berkshire will always stand with our Ukrainian guests.”

He gave his thanks to all those who have opened their arms to Ukrainians in West Berkshire including hosts, families, the council and wider community.

Drop in sessions to view the community garden will start on March 1 (Wednesday) and will repeat weekly thereafter from 9.30am - 12.30pm.

To join sessions call Amy Bosley on 07553810133 or email amy.bosley1@westberks.gov.uk