King’s tree planted in the grounds of Hertford Castle to mark Coronation

A tree to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III was planted on Monday by the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Mr Robert Voss CBE CStJ and the Mayor of Hertford, Cllr Vicky Smith.

Also in attendance were the Chair of Hertfordshire County Council, Cllr Terry Douris; the Chair of East Herts Council, Cllr Calvin Horner; Hertford Town Councillors, Gardeners from the Mudlarks Charity and students and staff from Richard Hale School, Hertford.

The aptly named Maple ‘Crimson King’, planted in the Moat Garden at Hertford Castle was supplied by Hertfordshire based nursery Majestic Trees. It has multiple benefits for wildlife, providing nectar for birds and bees via its fruit and seeds eaten by birds and small mammals in the autumn.

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Mr Robert Voss CBE CStJ said:

“Following the great success of The Queen’s Green Canopy project with nearly 4 million trees planted, Buckingham Palace has given each Lord-Lieutenant funding to purchase a tree to be planted in a significant public place in their county to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III - the first coronation in this country for over 70 years. I am delighted that we have been able to mark this occasion in the County town and at Hertford Castle with its magnificent royal history.

HM The King is well known for his interest in the environment so what could be better than to plant this special tree in this wonderful area that will benefit both people and wildlife for many years to come.”

Cllr Vicky Smith, Mayor of Hertford said: “It is a great honour to be planting a tree donated by His Majesty The King at Hertford Castle. It continues a long tradition for the connection of the site with Royalty and is a lovely way to mark The King’s interest in nature conservation and the role that plays in tackling climate change.

 It was wonderful that gardeners from the Mudlarks charity, who help care for the grounds and students from nearby Richard Hale School were also able to assist with the planting and to include the broader Hertford community.”