The Hoe Riverside

In addition to removing the dead elms, we also wanted to make space for planting some of the 100-plus saplings granted to us by the Woodland Trust under the auspices of the nationwide Queen’s Green Canopy project.

Although initially a celebration of Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, this project has now been endorsed and extended by King Charles as an enduring tribute to our late Queen’s reign.

We were all I think surprised at how thoroughly the clearance of this block of riverside was undertaken by the contractors. However I’m told this will give the young saplings the best start; planting in thick scrub is challenging both for the saplings and for the planters so it is good practice to clear it right back.  I’m assured that the low level vegetation will soon recover in abundance, and with it the wildlife habitat.

While there are also plans to place saplings in pockets around the Hoe, the impact of these young trees planted together as they grow and mature in this special riverside location promises to be quite spectacular.  Hopefully Piddinghoe’s contribution to the Queen’s Green Canopy will therefore be fittingly memorable.

All parishioners are being invited to help plant the mixed saplings on Saturday 12 November from 10 am.  I hope you can join us in this important community effort.

Thank you.