Six young athletes that competed in the International Children's
Games joined a group of civic dignitaries in Coundon Community
Woodland recently to plant 100 young saplings.
The trees were planted as enduring symbols of a number of recent
important events.
The Lord Mayor, Councillor Ram Lakha, planted trees in memory of
all those who were injured or died in last month's London
bombing.
He said:
"Since the Second World War, the people and the city of
Coventry have been internationally known for working to promote
peace and reconciliation. Following the recent tragic deaths and
injuries caused by the London bombing, it is vital that all our
communities do everything they possibly can to spread the message
of peace. These trees will be a lasting memorial to all those that
have suffered as a result of this terrorist action."
Councillor Gary Ridley, (Cabinet Member for Adult Education,
Libraries, Sport and Leisure) planted trees to mark the successful
London 2012 Olympic bid that will bring the world's top athletes to
compete in Britain.
He said:
"I was absolutely delighted to learn the exciting news that
the London 2012 bid was successful - it will be a tremendous boost
for the country and for this region too. Coventry is ideally placed
to be able to offer excellent sporting facilities that are a
prerequisite for training for this prestigious event."
Councillor John Mutton, Chairman of the International Children's
Games Organising Committee planted trees to celebrate the
tremendous success of the Games that took place recently in
Coventry.
Children from 54 cities came to compete and it was universally
hailed as a tremendous success. Councillor Mutton was was
accompanied by six young Coventry athletes and they planted
specially selected trees that are native to the continents that
took part in the sporting event so creating a long-term link
between the competitors and the city.
The tree planting also had a clear environmental purpose; the
large amount of new trees help to eliminate the impact of air
travel needed to bring many of the athletes to the games. This is
based on the principle of 'carbon sequestration' where trees
off-set the carbon dioxide generated. By doing this the Coventry
International Children's Games have set an example of good practice
for future host countries to follow.
Councillor John Mutton said:
"These trees are representative of the 54 cities that came
to Coventry to compete in the Games and the many sponsors and
partners that supported us and helped the city host a truly great
event. These trees are another positive legacy of the games and I
am sure the woodland will be a tremendous resource for many years
and generations to come."
The hundred trees that were planted will join more than 3000
trees that are in the process of being planted this year to form a
new woodland in Coventry.
The majority of trees that are due to be planted in the 8.5 acre
site will be native to the area and reflect the nature of the local
ancient woodland, The Forest of Arden. Funding for the project has
come from the City Council and The Forestry Commission.
More paths, interpretation boards and seating will be introduced
as the project develops, to enable everyone including those with
disabilities to access and enjoy the woodland fully.
It is anticipated that other innovative features such as
sculptures, bulb planting and zones of specialised woodland
practice such as coppicing may also be introduced.
Press release issued by Theresa Kendall, Communications Officer
Tel: 024 7683 2466 Mob: 07957 637 872 email: theresa.kendall@coventry.gov.uk
