Entertainment Swindon

Haydon Wick Parish Council is proud to announce the planting of two commemorative oak trees across the parish, as part of the Great Western Community Forest’s ‘Oaks at 80’ project – a landmark initiative honouring the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. £160.00 was awarded by Great Western Community Forest to the Parish Council via grant funding to purchase and plant the trees.

The two trees were planted with great pride and community spirit. One oak has been planted on Purton Road towards Akers Way, and the second in Rex Barnett Walk – both locations chosen to ensure the trees can be enjoyed by residents for generations to come.

In a wonderful coincidence of milestones, the honour of planting both trees was bestowed upon the Chair of the Parks & Open Spaces Committee, Councillor Richard Hailstone, who is himself celebrating his 80th birthday this month and was accompanied by the Chairman of the Parish Council, Councillor Vinay Manro, and members of the Parks and Open Spaces Team for the planting ceremony, making it a truly memorable occasion.

“By planting these oak trees, we not only honour the courage and sacrifice of those who lived through World War II but also create a lasting legacy that will benefit our community and environment for generations to come.”

About the ‘Oaks at 80’ Project

The ‘Oaks at 80’ project was launched by the Great Western Community Forest to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Communities across the area are planting oak trees to honour the service men and women, and civilians, who played their part in defending our country and way of life.

Oak trees have traditionally marked 80-year milestones and embody strength, resilience and longevity – virtues that resonate deeply with the sacrifices made during World War II and the hopeful spirit of peace that followed.