Memorial tree for Frimley Lodge Park

A MEMORIAL tree for Surrey Heath residents to pay their respects to lost loved ones is to be unveiled at a special ceremony.

Surrey Heath Borough Council will unveil the tree in Frimley Lodge Park on Friday January 25 for anyone wishing to remember loved ones and reflect on those they have lost.

Biodegradable rice paper will be available for visitors to leave a message on and pin to the tree.

The idea of the tree came about after a local resident posted her thoughts on having a memorial tree on a Facebook page. 

The suggestion received dozens of responses in support and Cllr Paul Deach took the idea to Surrey Heath Borough Council.

Cllr Paul Deach said: "Many of us have lost loved ones and it is not always easy to pay our respects, as this can often involve long distance travel. In my own case, my grandparents were laid to rest in Manchester but this allows me to quietly reflect on their life in a beautiful setting close to my home.

"Lots of local residents will benefit immensely from this wonderful idea. I would like to thank Debbie Webb for having such a lovely idea and for the councils green space team who have been incredibly helpful in identifying the perfect spot for making this happen."

The tree will be officially unveiled at 11am and will be blessed by Reverend Larry Bain from Heatherside Church.