The first cherry trees have to be planted in Congleton for The Queen.

As we reported on in January, 70 cherry trees will be planted across Congleton this spring, to mark every year Queen Elizabeth II has been on the throne.

And now the first have been planted.

Anyone visiting Congleton War Memorial Hospital from today will notice the addition of three beautiful cherry trees planted to mark Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

The special trees were planted by Congleton Town Mayor, Cllr Denis Murphy, assisted by Chairman of East Cheshire NHS Trust Lyn McGill and Director of Nursing & Quality Kate Daly-Brown.

The commemorative event took place on Tuesday March 15 as part of the Queen's Green Canopy (QGC) initiative.

Cllr Murphy said: "On behalf of Congleton Town Council I would like to thank Congleton War Memorial hospital for working with us on this sustainable project and accepting the trees on their land.

"As the trees grow and blossom at the town's historic hospital, I hope they can bring some enjoyment to patients and residents alike whilst creating a legacy in honour of The Queen's leadership of the Nation."

Cherry trees take about three years to establish and can begin bearing tasty fruit the following year.

Cllr Murphy added: "Recognition must go to the Trees for Congleton Group, who were involved in the planting. They have been leading the charge in helping to plant the 30 thousand trees in Congleton by the end of 2025."

"They have already planted thousands of trees, hedge rows and shrubs. So a big thank you to this group."

Congleton is not alone planting these special trees. Up and down the country many groups and organisations are coming together to plant trees for the Queen's Green Canopy.

The 67 other cherry trees across are planned across our town.

Nine trees are planned in our town's carehomes, meanwhile the 11 schools in our area will receive a tree each.

All 70 will be added to the Queen's Green Canopy map later in the year, closer to the date of the Queen's Jubilee in June.

Congleton Town Council provided the trees and stakes for the War Memorial grounds and will do so for shrubs planted elsewhere.

As well as being a reminder of the service of our Queen, the trees will have a practical role helping to soak up carbon and also providing food for birds and insects.

The event was well supported by volunteers, students, NHS Staff, members of the public and town councillor's who turned out for the start of Congleton's 'Plant a Tree for the Jubilee' celebrations.

Congleton: You can learn more about the Queen's Green Canopy by clicking here.

Congleton War Memorial Hospital is located on Canal Road.

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