Arboretum gets under way in Sheringham

Sheringham mayor Noel Gant turned the first turf at a new garden tree arboretum launched by the town's in Bloom team on Saturday. The one-acre project, which was dreamed up by horticulturalist Mike Clayton with the help of Sheringham in Bloom members and former Kew Gardens curator John Simmons of Gresham, will see local businesses and individuals invited to sponsor a tree from a list of suitable species ranging from crab apple to catalpa.

Sheringham mayor Noel Gant turned the first turf at a new garden tree arboretum launched by the town's In Bloom team on Saturday.

The one-acre project, which was dreamed up by horticulturalist Mike Clayton with the help of Sheringham in Bloom members and former Kew Gardens curator John Simmons of Gresham, will see local businesses and individuals invited to sponsor a tree from a list of suitable species ranging from crab apple to catalpa.

Once planted, the Cromer Road arboretum, will offer a valuable reference point for gardening enthusiasts, as well as providing the town with a new beauty spot with unrivalled views over the market place and North Norfolk Railway station.

It is part of a part of a wider project entitled Sheringham's Favourite Trees, which will see In Bloom members conduct a survey of the town's trees and organise tree-themed events.

A leaflet produced in partnership with North Norfolk District Council will also be distributed to residents, who will be invited to nominate their favourite tree.

Other events planned as part of the scheme include a tree identifying walk led by district council countryside and parks manager Paul Ingham on May 17.

Sheringham in Bloom would be delighted to hear from anyone willing to sponsor a tree.

For more information, phone 01263 825242 or visit www.sheringhaminbloom.org.