Students’ tribute to Queen Elizabeth II will grow through the generations

Published Tuesday, 14th March 2023

Pupils from Hartlepool primary, secondary and special schools have been creating their own very special and lasting tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

A total of 70 students planted a selection of young trees on land near the Visitor Centre in Summerhill country park to create a tranquil ‘green’ memorial to our late beloved monarch.

Making the tribute doubly poignant, the young people also read poems and written reflections which they have created in memory of Queen Elizabeth II in a creative writing project.

Taking part were the Brougham, Fens, Golden Flatts, Grange, Jesmond Gardens, Kingsley, Lynnfield, Manor, St Cuthbert’s, St John Vianney, Throston and Ward Jackson primary schools, the Dyke House, English Martyrs, High Tunstall and St Hild’s secondary schools and the Catcote and Springwell special schools.

They funded the tree planting themselves and Hartlepool Borough Council helped them in making the arrangements. The Ceremonial Mayor of Hartlepool, Councillor Brian Cowie, met the students on the day to show his support and lent a hand with some of the planting.

Tree planting at Summerhill

A total of 50 ‘whips’ were planted – a mix of common oak, silver birch, green beech, hornbeam and common alder – together with a mature mountain ash.

Speaking on behalf of all the schools, Mark Tilling, Headteacher of High Tunstall College of Science, said: “Queen Elizabeth II was greatly loved by the students and was a wonderful and inspiring role model for them.

“They wanted to create their own very special and environmentally-friendly tribute to her which will last for generations. It’s really touching to think that in years to come they, their children and grandchildren will be able to visit the site, enjoy seeing the mature trees and reflect on the life of service which they represent.

“The students have also very much appreciated being able to express themselves through the creative writing project and have produced some exceptional written tributes.”

Councillor Brian Cowie, the Ceremonial Mayor of Hartlepool, added: “This was a wonderful idea from Hartlepool’s students and they can be very proud of what they are creating.

“It will be a very fine tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and will create a beautiful and tranquil area for people of all ages from across the town to visit and enjoy.”