MIGHTY oaks from little acorns grow – not quite Shakespeare but fitting nevertheless to the scene which unfolded at the Swan Gardens in Stratford.
An English Oak tree has been planted by the Royal Shakespeare Company to commemorate the coronation of His Majesty The King.
The event symbolised a lasting tribute to King Charles III – the RSC’s patron – but was also geared at highlighting a shared commitment to sustainability, heritage, and community between the RSC, the county of Warwickshire, and the people of Stratford.
The ceremony took place in the Avon Bank gardens, with the lord lieutenant of Warwickshire, Tim Cox joined by RSC deputy executive director Jacqui O’Hanlon, and two year 6 pupils from Stratford Primary School – Naia West and Sara Clewer – who each delivered uplifting speeches outlining their hopes and dreams for the future of Stratford.
Naia spoke of her vision for a greener town.
She said: “Improving the environment for future generations via more recycling bins, shops increasing the amount of biodegradable materials that are used, and a greater number of litter-picking groups to clean up and improve rubbish-infested areas and our wonderful river to help wildlife thrive.”
Sara shared her aspiration for safer travel and sustainability, adding: “I would love there to be cycle lanes on every road, making it safer for students to ride to school, especially if they are on their own.”
The date of the ceremony held additional historical significance, marking 50 years since the late Queen Elizabeth II formally opened the Centenary Gardens – also known locally as The Dell.
As part of the celebration, the original commemorative plaque from 1975 was reinstated onto the wall overlooking the gardens, further connecting Stratford’s past, present, and future.
