Cherry Trees planted in Abbey Park to mark Wychavon's 50th anniversary

Four trees were planted into the ground on Friday, January 26 by Cllr Robert Raphael, chairman of Wychavon District Council, and Mid-Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston.

Cllr Raphael and Mr Huddleston kicked off a two-year tree planting project by planting four near the kiosk area in Abbey Park, with a total of 60 set to be planted in district's parks and open spaces in areas such as The Valley.

<hr>

Read more: Mayor defends Evesham after named most depressing town

<hr>

The planting of the cherry trees follows on from a visit to Wychavon by the Japanese ambassador last year.

This visit was in association with the launch of The Valley's Blossom River Cruise, a venture to support the district's blossom trail.

Famous for its cherry blooms, Japan is working on a project to plant 6,500 cherry trees across the UK.

The initiative serves as a longstanding symbol of companionship between Japan and the UK.

There are three varieties of cherry tree being planted, with each chosen for its symbolic significance and ties to UK-Japan relations.

This November, an additional 24 cherry trees will arrive, and a final delivery is expected in November of the following year to mark the culmination of Wychavon’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

Cllr Raphael said: "Planting these trees is a wonderful way to not only mark the friendship between our two countries but also the love of blossom Wychavon and Japan shares.

"It is even more special we have been able to do this in our 50th anniversary year and in time these trees will create an amazing spectacle every April and another reason for visiting our beautiful district."

MP Nigel Huddleston echoed this sentiment, saying: "The cherry trees planted not only add to the beauty of Abbey Park in Evesham, but will provide a lasting legacy of two cultures coming together over their shared love of blossom.

"I extend my thanks to the Sakura Cherry Tree project and the Japanese people for this wonderful gift."