The Mayor of Test Valley attended the final day of Andover’s three-week schools tree planting programme at Bury Hill Meadows, marking the completion of this year’s community planting effort and the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Copse.
Councillor Gordon Bailey MBE visited the site on 24 November, where the final trees were planted as part of a programme delivered by local charity Andover Trees United. The initiative brought together primary and secondary schools from across Andover, alongside volunteers, community groups and local businesses, to help grow the town’s community woodland.
Over the three-week programme, more than 20 schools, Andover College, 11 local businesses, Rotary members, council officers and dozens of volunteers took part. In total, 1,500 native trees were planted, giving young people the opportunity to learn practical conservation skills within their local environment.
During his visit, the Mayor met representatives from Andover Trees United, volunteers, schoolchildren and supporters, and heard about the impact of the programme, the learning experiences it offers young people, and the charity’s long-term vision for a greener Andover.
The Mayor said:
“It was an honour to see first-hand the incredible work taking place at Bury Hill Meadows. The children, volunteers and local businesses taking part have created something truly special for Andover. This woodland will support wildlife, improve biodiversity and stand as a living legacy of what a community can achieve when it comes together with purpose and passion.”
Wendy Davis, founder of Andover Trees United, said:
“Seeing the Mayor join us in our final week of this year’s programme is a powerful reminder of what a community can achieve when it comes together with purpose. Andover is showing the country what a greener, healthier future looks like, and my hope is that towns and cities across the UK will feel inspired to follow our lead.
“This project began with a vision, through practical action, to educate, empower and bring young people closer to nature and today we can be proud of the legacy we’re creating for generations to come.”
Test Valley Borough Council’s Climate Emergency Portfolio Holder, Councillor Alison Johnson, added:
“The partnership between Andover Trees United, local schools, businesses and volunteers is an outstanding example of community action in Test Valley.
“This year’s programme has not only expanded Bury Hill Meadows but has also provided young people with hands-on environmental education that will stay with them for life. We’re proud to support initiatives that strengthen our natural spaces and provide benefits for both people and wildlife.”
Bury Hill Meadows is the latest planting site in Andover Trees United’s long-term programme, following the creation of Harmony Woods, a 12-acre woodland planted by young people between 2012 and 2022 as a legacy project for HM Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.
Residents who would like to find out more about Andover Trees United, volunteer at future conservation days, or explore the developing community woodland can visit www.andovertrees.org.uk.
