Mayor plants commemorative tree to remember those lost in war from Rushcliffe 

A commemorative tree has been planted by the Mayor of Rushcliffe and local school children to remember those lost in war from Rushcliffe and further signify 75 years since the end of World War II.

Cllr Sue Mallender was joined by Cllr Abby Brennan and Barney and Harriet Burrows to plant the graceful new oak tree in Bridgford Park in West Bridgford yesterday (Saturday).

It commemorates all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice from the Borough in all conflict and marked with a plaque to reflect the 75 years since VE Day. Cllr Mallender said: “We know so many Remembrance events and reflections are sadly absent in many cases this year due to COVID-19.

Therefore, we wished part of our commemorations this year to include planting this tree to remind residents we should never forget.

“Thank you to everyone who plays a part to remember those fallen at home this weekend.”

Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Community and The Environment Cllr Brennan was delighted a local park should be the focus of one of the Borough’s latest commemorations.

She said: “We know that so many residents love our parks, so what better way to mark this 75th Anniversary year than to provide a lasting monument to the sacrifice so many made in the second World War.

“We are living through difficult times for many now but is important that we still take time to remember those who gave so much whether in world wars or conflict in more recent times.

“People can visit the tree safely under the COVID-19 restrictions as part of their daily walk or exercise.”

Barney and Harriet from Lady Bay in West Bridgford echoed the Councillors’ thoughts.

They said: “The tree looks lovely and we hope it grows a lot bigger so it’s an even bigger reminder of everyone we have lost in the past.”