Oldham tree-planting charity branches out

A MEMORIAL forest charity based in Oldham is spreading its roots to help out in other areas.

Life for a Life will launch a new Memorial Woodland at Wythenshawe Park on Thursday which will be named after Colonel Sir John Timmins and Lady Jean Timmins.

The tribute is a thank-you for the service and dedication to duty while serving as Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester between December, 1987, and June, 2007.

The new woodland is part of the charity’s national expansion and the first of a three-phase project within the grounds of Wythenshawe Park. There is space in the first phase for 70 trees, with 200 to be planted eventually.

Wythenshawe Hospital Transplant Department will benefit from funds raised from Memorial Trees planted there.

The Chadderton-based charity recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking the occasion by planting a tree at Strinesdale Country Park, where it planted its first tree, in the name of the Queen.

Since its inception, 2,182 trees have been planted in memorial forests in the Oldham area and £530,594 handed out to local causes.

The charity now has a total of 40 planting sites across the country, including six in Oldham at Dovestone Reservoir, Greenfield; Tandle Hill Country Park, Royton; Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, Royton; Salmon Fields, Royton; and at Calf Lane on the Mossley/Greenfield border.

Individuals pay £550 in return for a tree, planted with a 25-year guarantee and a certificate. The fee includes a £100 donation to a local charity. In total, more than 6,570 memorial trees have been planted in the last 10 years, generating £3 million, split between the charity’s running costs and donations to good causes.

Chief executive Norman Armstrong-Kersh says every town and city in the UK should have a Life for a Life Memorial Forest and he’s proud it started in Oldham.

Thursday’s event at 11am will see councillors and other dignitaries attending and concludes with lunch at Wythenshawe Hall.