During August, Roger and I were out and about surveying trees in the Parish. The results are eventually fed into not just an overall Cheshire survey but also the nationwide statistics about the general wellbeing of our largest plants. We certainly have some magnificent Oak specimens around. A particular favourite of mine stands on land farmed by the Large family and is situated not far from the public footpath from Vicarage Lane through to College Lane. It has a trunk size of 425cms (about 14ft.) and will have been there long before any of us were around and, if left to nature, should outlive us all. This year we added to the list a young Copper Beech that has been planted on the Playing Field. This tree has the potential to bring pleasure to the coming generations. A tree can be a complete eco-system, with many birds, animals, insects and other organisms benefiting from its presence. In September and October the leaves turn colour and start to fall before the winter sets in, but the promise of next spring is there in the buds that are left in preparation. I am sure that there is some parable that fits in with all of this! Perhaps somebody will think of it and write it for the next Parish Magazine.
Sue Netherton