A tree cutting from Newtown’s iconic Black Poplar has been planted in Dolerw Park to mark the coronation of King Charles III.
The planting of the coronation tree was described as an “historic event marking not only a significant moment for the town but for the entire county of Powys”.
Lord-Lieutenant Tia Jones, the King’s personal representative for Powys, chose Newtown as the location for the county’s coronation tree, and was accompanied by her husband, John, a silviculturalist.
The event on Wednesday morning, January 29, which came before the announcement that the King had been diagnosed with cancer on Monday, saw children from several Newtown primary schools gather to watch the Black Poplar being planted which is protected by a guard made by Nigel Lloyd Ironmongers.
The Lord-Lieutenant said: "I cannot think of a more fitting setting, circled by a ring of young people in this delightful park, to witness this historic planting.
“My thanks go to all those who have helped facilitate this memorable day in celebration of His Majesty King Charles III's coronation, and may this rare Black Poplar, so associated with Newtown, grow and flourish with the future generations of our lovely, green county."
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St Mary's Catholic Primary School headteacher Sarah Ruggeri said: "We felt privileged to be part of such a momentous occasion. Following the tree planting, we took a walk along to St. Mary's Church to see the newly erected sculpture in honour of our King. All in all, a lovely morning.”
Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council thanked all the schools that brought children to watch the event which “added an enthusiasm that resonated throughout the day, making it truly special”.
The Town Council said the selected tree is a cutting from the more than 350-year-old Black Poplar, a Woodland Trust Wales Tree of the Year finalist in 2019.
“This tree, a living testament to our town's enduring history, will be accompanied by a plaque and guard, making it a focal point in Dolerw Park," Town Clerk Ed Humphreys said.
Special guests at the tree planting ceremony also included Vice Lord-Lieutenant Tony Evans, Powys County Council chair Councillor Beverley Baynham, Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Deputy Mayor Councillor Mike Childs and Open Newtown CEO Stuart Owen.
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