500th tree planted

12.00.00am GMT Thu 14th Mar 2002

In a joint commemoration of the Golden Jubilee and the planting of the 500th new tree in the borough since 2000, Lib Dem controlled Islington Council held a planting ceremony at Laycock Street Open Space this March. The Golden ash (Fraxinus excelsior 'Jaspidea') that was planted- also reflects the 50th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II. Cllr George Allan said: "We are committed to making islington a green borough - through planting and creating greenary and greenspace as well as through initiatives such as recycling. We are pleased to have been able to deliver on this pledge within 18 months - and it does not stop here." Residents can also sponsor a tree (from £50). 20 trees have been sponsored this year - often to commemorate anniversaries, life events or loved ones. Anyone wishing to sponsor a tree can call Islington Tree Service on 020 7527 4946. Many of the 500 new trees replaced those in residential streets, along highways and in parks.