University of Northampton micro orchard planted to support Queen’s Green Canopy project

The Queen’s Green Canopy tree planting initiative, which marks the monarch’s Platinum Jubilee, has put down roots at the University of Northampton.

People from across the University gathered to plant a micro orchard of seven heritage fruit trees today (Wednesday 2 March) at Waterside campus.

Across the commonwealth, communities are planting trees as a lasting tribute to the monarch’s love of nature. It is hoped that tree planting will create powerful changes to the ecosystems across the globe too.

John Howes, External Services Manager at the University, said: “Tree planting enhances both the rural and urban landscape, helps with biodiversity and with combating climate change so is good for people, wildlife and the environment. What better way to honour Her Majesty than to plant a tree for the Jubilee?”

John added: “The seven trees selected for the micro orchard are all Northamptonshire apple variants, specifically chosen to support the biodiversity of Waterside campus. It is hoped that these trees will bear fruit, which can be used within our University catering outlets, as well as collected by students, staff, and the local community.”

The Northamptonshire Queen’s Green Canopy lead, Paul Parsons, said: “The Queen’s Green Canopy is a unique tree planting initiative created to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee by inviting people from across the United Kingdom to Plant a Tree for the Jubilee. With a focus on planting sustainably, the Queen’s Green Canopy encourages the planting of trees to create a legacy in honour of the Queen’s leadership of the nation which will benefit generations to come.

“In this context, I am delighted to see the University of Northampton’s micro orchard being planted by valued members of the University community. These apple trees will create a legacy which will enhance the environment and the landscape and provide a very fitting tribute to Her Majesty.”

The trees, which have been planted within the ecology area of Waterside campus, will be enjoyed by the students, staff, and community for years to come. Each tree was planted by a representative from the communities around the campus.

Beth Garrett, Students’ Union Vice President

Emma Roberts, West Northamptonshire councillor for Delapre & Rushmere

Becky Bradshaw, the University’s Executive Director of Estates & Campus Services

Becky Bradshaw, the University’s Executive Director of Estates & Campus Services and Beth Garrett, Students’ Union Vice President, planted trees on behalf of staff and students at the University.

Morcea Walker, vice lord lieutenant of Northamptonshire, and Emma Roberts, West Northamptonshire councillor for Delapre and Rushmere, planted trees to highlight the roots the University has with the surrounding community.

Rufia Ashraf, Mayor of Northampton and a graduate of the University, planted a tree on behalf of the town and fellow graduates.

John Bright and Daniel Soan, councillors on Far Cotton and Delapre Community Council, planted a tree on behalf of residents local to Waterside campus.

Aaron, Tammy, Ryan and Tyler also planted a tree on behalf of the Live Team, North Northants, with whom the University works through offering volunteering opportunities to its service users.

The Northamptonshire Queen’s Green Canopy lead, Paul Parsons

Rufia Ashraf, Mayor of Northampton and a graduate of the University

Morcea Walker, vice lord lieutenant of Northamptonshire

John Bright and Daniel Soan, councillors on Far Cotton and Delapre Community Council

Aaron, Tammy, Ryan and Tyler also planted a tree on behalf of the Live Team, North Northants

Cllr Pinder Chauhan is heading up the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative at West Northamptonshire Council. She said: “It’s fantastic that such a range of organisations across West Northamptonshire are taking part in the Queen’s Green Canopy, and this new orchard will be enjoyed by students and staff for many years to come.

“The planting season finishes at the end of March, and resumes again in October, so there is still plenty of time to get involved and play a part in commemorating the Platinum Jubilee by planting a tree.”

The species planted were Lord Burghley, Barnack Beauty, Thorpes Peach, Aynho Scarlet and Eady’s Magnum.

The seven trees join thousands of other planting projects across the UK which are available on the interactive map on the QGC website.