We have been lucky enough to receive 30 cherry trees donated to the University by the Sakura Cherry Project.
The Sakura Cherry Tree Project was launched in 2017 by the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and the British Prime Minister Theresa May. The project had an initial aim to plant 1,000 cherry trees in the UK to symbolise 150 years of friendship and co-operation between Japan and the UK. The target has been surpassed and 7,700 trees have now been planted, with hopes of reaching 10,000!
The variety donated, Prunus serrulata ‘Tai Haku’ (Great White Cherry), had become extinct in Japan but has been reintroduced from the UK! These beautiful trees are going to provide a wonderful display of blossom in Spring, celebrating the changing seasons and representing the fragility and transience of beauty in nature.
We have planted them on the Cherry Orchard lawn in front of Washington Singer, to be enjoyed by all.
Thank you to our very muddy volunteers for planting these trees during the community tree planting event on Thursday 19 March and to the Japanese community in the UK who work hard to see this project continue.
We look forward to gathering under the these beautiful cherry trees in Spring!