AN OAK tree sapling which was awarded to Cam following interest in the Woodland Trust’s Tree Charter pledge has been given a new home at the soon-to-be opened garden centre on Dursley Road in Cam.

Brian Whatling, Chairman of Cam Parish Council, was helped to plant the tree at Leaf & Ground garden centre by members of staff and volunteers from gardening group Blooming Cam.

The tiny oak was given to the parish of Cam in the winter of 2017 after 102 local people signed the Charter for Trees, Woods and People, which recognises the importance of trees to humans, wildlife and the environment.

It’s hoped the charter will guide policy and practice in tree protection in the UK.

Since then the oak tree has lived happily in a large pot but it was felt the time was right to get it established in a new home; therefore the new garden centre was approached to see if they could find a suitable spot.

Jess Fisk, from Leaf & Ground, said they had been happy to work with the parish council and had offered several possible locations for the tree.

She added: “There are many different species of tree at Leaf & Ground, including other oaks, and we have already planted around 50 new trees at the site.

"The conservation of trees, wildlife and the environment is very close to our hearts so we were pleased to be able to give Cam’s oak sapling a home.

"We look forward to seeing it grow as the years pass.”

Cam Parish Council hopes to continue to improve its green credentials with an objective in its Neighbourhood Development plan dedicated to the environment and sustainability.

The objective aims to protect, improve and extend Cam’s green infrastructure network.