STUDENTS PLANT TREES AT OBSERVATORY GARDENS TO MARK NATIONAL TREE WEEK

Ten local students are utilising their newfound skills and doing their bit for the planet, by planting 15 new trees in the Observatory grounds. Eight oaks, five redwoods, one beech and one holm oak have been chosen to be planted for this stage of AOP’S ongoing tree planting initiative.

The tree planting came at a significant time as last week marked National Tree Week, a UK wide annual celebration with an ethos to makes a positive difference to the earth by planting trees and hedgerows.

The collaboration between Clanrye Ltd, horticulture and landscape business Idverde and Armagh Observatory & Planetarium is providing a unique opportunity for Level 1 Construction & Horticulture students from Clanrye Ltd. to make their mark in the gardens and develop their practical skills in garden design.

Victor Watson, Contracts Manager, from Idverde said: “We are delighted to support the students on this wonderful project and the grounds at the Observatory are the perfect location, at this optimum time for winter tree planting. Our Landscape Architect, Patrick Hamill was on hand to provide practical tips and advice for the students on how to make the most out of outdoor spaces. The partnership with Clanrye is an opportunity not only for us to potentially recruit motivated young people with an interest in horticulture but also to give back to the local community, providing placements and work experience days.”

Shane Kelly from Armagh Observatory & Planetarium said: “Our grounds provide an interesting area for people to amble and explore nature and experience a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna. We like to see visitors enjoying the outdoor space here and we are really pleased to be able to continue our investment, supported by Department for Communities (DfC) in planting more beautiful trees that will watch over the estate for centuries to come. Trees and hedgerows are important in the fight against climate change and crucial as habitats for myriad species”.

Clanrye Ltd. offer horticulture training as well as employability skills to young people in Northern Ireland, some of whom are from disadvantaged communities. Idverde are working with Clanrye to help these young people to gain practical work experience in the industry, in a bid to help improve their employability skills.