Pupils join Bob for Tree celebration

Trees bring people together - that's the view of former South Norfolk Council Chairman Bob McClenning

And this week, pupils at Tacolneston Primary School helped Bob mark his last day as Council Chairman by joining him under the Horse Chestnut tree in front of their school.

The tree has been dedicated as Bob's Chairman's Tree for 2005/06. The scheme celebrates and protects trees that are already growing in the district, making the landscape beautiful and contributing to its heritage.

Bob said:

"Ever since I first came to live here I have loved the Chestnut tree. It's been my place to pause under it and ponder, or just admire the beauty of the village.

"Children have sheltered under it for generations and foraged for conkers in the autumn. It is a lovely local landmark in our village Conservation Area and it will be here long after I am gone.

"I am delighted that it has been designated as my tree, and now that I am no longer council chairman, I hope that in the words of the great poet W H Davies, I will have more time to stand and stare beneath its boughs."

The horse chestnut is close to the school, where Bob was a school governor. Mrs Margaret Barker who is the head teacher said:

"The children we're really thrilled about this. It is wonderful that Bob chose this tree because it is much loved by the children who walk past it and collect conkers in the autumn.

"At this time of the year the tree is absolutely stunning to look at. You can see from the picture that the children really enjoyed themselves."

Robin Taylor, Landscape Officer for South Norfolk Council said:

"This is the fifth Chairman's Tree that we have dedicated and a Tree Preservation Order has been served to record the tree's significance and commemorate Councillor's McClenning's distinguished service to the Council.

"We have not accurately dated it, but it is thought to be in the region of 100 years old."

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