A TREE has been planted in Sandown as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy — a national tree planting initiative to honour the Platinum Jubilee.

Sandown Green Town Volunteers and local residents were delighted to welcome Deputy Lord Lieutenants for the Isle of Wight, Mary Case and Graham Biss, together with Sandown Mayor, Cllr Paddy Lightfoot, to the planting of an oak tree in Battery Gardens.

Ben Holbrook, deputy chair of the volunteer group, said: "We hope this tree, along with other native species we have planted around Sandown, will help to mark the Platinum Jubilee, and will go on to thrive for decades to come.

"Trees are vital to our lives and wellbeing, but also provide habitats for insects, fungi, moss, small mammals and birds.

"We would encourage everyone to consider planting a tree. There are trees suitable for even the smallest of gardens. The best time for planting is October to March, so the summer is for making your plans.

"Check out the Queen's Green Canopy website where there is excellent advice."

Sandown Green Town Volunteers are representing the Island in Britain In Bloom this summer and are always looking for new members.

Get in touch by emailing sandowngtv@gmail.com or check them out on Facebook.