Special tree planting ceremony to honour the King

A tree has been planted in King’s Park, Dalkeith to commemorate King Charles’ Coronation.

Hundreds of trees planted across the UK

The Coronation oak is one of hundreds of saplings planted by local authorities across the UK in tribute to the King’s love of nature and the environment.

Special ceremony

His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Midlothian is Lieutenant Colonel Richard Callander and Provost Debbi McCall did the honours on Thursday 2 May with help from the Green Tree Awards Group from King’s Park Primary and the school’s oldest and youngest pupils, Cathan Fallis, 12 and Lucy Snedden, 5.

Lasting tribute

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Callander said: “It is only fitting we have a lasting tribute to His Royal Highness who, as we all know, is passionate about the environment. I am delighted, therefore, to plant the Coronation tree today and unveil a plaque to mark this important occasion.”

Celebrating a year

The Coronation of King Charles III and his wife Camilla took place on Saturday 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey.

Bring joy to local people

Provost McCall said: “It is a privilege, on behalf of the people of Midlothian, to plant this oak tree which will bring joy to local people, including the King’s Park pupils here today, for generations to come. 

Love of nature

“His Royal Highness, who is dedicated to conservation and nature, I’m sure will approve.”

Helping hands

Land and Countryside Manager Justin Venton, Depute Lord-Lieutenant Harriet Dalrymple, Midlothian Council Gardener Graeme Crozier and King’s Park Head Teacher Laurinda Renton all helped the pupils plant pansies round the tree, which will have its own plaque to mark the historic event.

Regular visits

Lucy, 5, in the main picture with Cathan holding spades, said she would enjoy visiting the tree for years to come and would make sure it had plenty of water.