A new memorial forest has been launched in Bury in a new scheme dedicated to honouring life and nature.

The launch of the Lowe’s Road "Life for a Life" Memorial Forest saw borough mayor, Cllr Sandra Walmsley, Bury Hospice representatives, Jigsaw Bury, Friends of Clarence Park, and Red Start NW and Cllr Alan Quinn in attendance.

They came together at the event on Friday, September 22 to plant four symbolic trees, each carrying a profound message.

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The mayor led the ceremony by planting an English oak tree to underline the council’s commitment to environmental stewardship and emphasising the importance of preserving our natural surroundings.

Staff and trustees from the hospice planted a silver birch tree as a heartfelt tribute to all patients past and present.

The tree stands as a living memorial to the resilience and strength of those who have been cared for by the hospice.

A silver birch was jointly planted by the trustees of Life for a Life Memorial Forests and Redstart NW to symbolise the beginning of their partnership and their shared values towards a common goal.

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Cllr Alan Quinn was accompanied by members of Friends of Clarence Park and Jigsaw and planted an English oak tree on behalf of the Bury community.

In addition to the tree plantings, Life for a Life demonstrated its commitment to the community by presenting donations of £2,000 to the hospice and £1,000 to Jigsaw.

Emma Scott, executive director of Life for a Life, said: "We are deeply grateful to all who supported and joined us in this momentous occasion.

"The 'Life for a Life’ Memorial Forest at Lowes Road is not only a testament to our dedication to environmental conservation but also a symbol of the unity and compassion that define our community."