A MEMORIAL tree dedicated to those who lost their lives during the pandemic has been planted in the garden of a Yate pub.

The tree was planted as part of a special fundraiser for Cancer Research UK at Stanshawes Court on Saturday.

Nineteen tree stumps have been positioned around the tree, to signify the loss of life associated with Covid-19.

Customers were invited to place plaques in memory of lost loved ones on the stumps in return for a donation.

The day also included plenty of family entertainment, including a performance by Yate dance school Street Cred.

There was also a hog roast, tug of war, barrel rolling, inflatables and even the opportunity to have your photograph taken with a baby alligator.

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A number of local businesses also provided prizes for a raffle.

Dozens of families attended the event, on what was one of the busiest days the pub had even seen.

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Stanshawes Court landlord Paul Davies said the event had been ‘amazing’.

“The support was fantastic.

“I was honestly lost for words,” he said.

“Everyone had a great time. It did rain during the tree planting but we kept going.”

Paul also wanted to thank his hard-working staff for their help running the event.

“I could not have done this without them.

“It was such a long day yet they loved it,” he said.

More than £2,100 has so far been raised for Cancer Research UK.

All photos courtesy of Martin Stacey Photography