The arboretum project was the brainchild of the Havant and Emsworth Tree Wardens some years ago. After consulting local residents there was overwhelming support of the creation of a community memorial arboretum.
Residents said they wanted a place where their loved ones might be remembered (and celebrated) with the planting of trees. Thanks to the cooperation of Havant Borough Council who have made available six acres of public owned land at Hampshire Farm Meadows. (PO10 7GD) the creation of the arboretum is now a reality.
In order to manage and take responsibility for the development of the project we have formed a charitable trust and appointed eight trustees from the area to oversee its progress. We are currently in the process of applying to the Charity Commission to be granted full charitable status. We are delighted to say that Tim Peake our country’s latest Astronaut agreed to become our patron. A local artist Marian Forster has designed our rather stunning logo.
We have been in existence for twelve months and towards the end of last year had sufficient funds from donors to be able to purchase and plant the first 65 trees on the site. The inaugural planting of a tree in memory of the late Queen Elizabeth was led by Tim Peake, on a bright sunny morning last November in the presence of about 200 people including many children. This year we hope to plant a further 60 trees so by the end of the year the arboretum will be taking shape. We purchase good quality stock from local nurseries and take full responsibility (together with another community group, Friends of Hampshire Farm Meadows) for the planting, protection, and long term care thanks to the financial support and kindness of our donors and other community organisations. We estimate that it will take five years to fully stock the arboretum of about 250 special trees and we are well on the way to reaching this target. By this time the area will be a place of quiet enjoyment and reflection.
Our estimate of the cost of purchasing, planting, administration and long term care of the trees is approximately £250. We are therefore asking donors to contribute this sum if they wish to link their donation to remembering a loved one. However any greater amount will be appreciated and we welcome other donations from individuals and business/community organisations. The names of loved ones will be added to a Roll of Honour retained in museums and libraries in the borough and included on our website www.evma.org.uk We will be delighted to welcome residents from other parts of the borough to join in this unique community project. If you have any questions or require further information, I will be pleased to answer them and can be contacted on: 01243 377 355 or email at: brendan.gibbgray@talktalk.net