YOUNG children from the Noah’s Ark Play Group helped to plant a rowan tree in the grounds of St Stephen’s Church, Shottermill.

Haslemere Rotary sponsored the event, with horticulturist and Rotarian Peter Clark taking the lead in getting his hands dirty.

A church spokesperson said: “St Stephen’s Shottermill Church is proud to be part of the ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’ by planting a rowan tree in honour of the Queen’s Green Canopy Project.

“The rowan tree is popular with bees and other insects when it flowers and also with birds in autumn for its bright red fruits.

“By planting this tree in the church grounds, St Stephen’s demonstrates the importance of caring for the world.

“Tree planting is just one of the ways the church can create an attractive environment.”

In 2017, St Stephen’s was awarded bronze status as an eco church by A Rocha for making environmental changes to key areas of worship and teaching, building, land and community.

Church warden Peter Soar said: “It is especially wonderful to be planting this tree in our church grounds as it is fulfilling a pledge to become a more sustainable eco church and also as a legacy in honour of the Queen’s leadership of the nation, which will benefit future generations.”