Trees gifted to members as part of The Queen's Green Canopy

East of England Co-op has handed out 250 trees as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy, to members across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex.

The handout was part of a nationwide initiative to create a living legacy in memory of Queen Elizabeth II, with over a million trees planted in her name.

Initially launched as a celebration of the Platinum Jubilee last year, The Queen’s Green Canopy was due to conclude in December 2022 – the end of the Jubilee year. However, the initiative has been extended to the end of this March to allow participants to plant a tree in memoriam of Her Majesty The Queen. 

Individuals, community groups and schools were encouraged to apply for a free fruit tree, which were then handed out at Food stores across the region between January 30 and February 3.

Community Engagement Manager at East of England Co-op, Lynn Warner, said: “The Queen’s Green Canopy is the perfect opportunity for local schools, community groups and individuals to plant a tree in Queen Elizabeth II’s honour, while supporting our local tree population”.

The region’s largest independent retailer launched this community initiative with a tree planting ceremony at its Suffolk headquarters in November. Six silver birch trees were planted as part of Queen’s Green Canopy at Wherstead Park, near Ipswich by Co-op President, Frank Moxon and Board Director, Jane Nice.