Sakura Cherry Tree Project 2021

Japan Friendship Blossoms with Cherry Trees for Daventry Town

As a symbol of the longstanding friendship between Japan and the UK, ten Japanese cherry blossom trees were planted in Daventry Town, New Street Park.

The trees were donated by numerous Japanese businesses and individuals through the Sakura Cherry Tree Planting Project which aims to plant 6,500 trees across the UK, following a joint declaration of co-operation made by the Japanese and British Prime Ministers in 2017. Cherry trees will be planted in parks and public spaces nationwide coordinated by the Japan Matsuri Company.

The ten trees, kindly gifted to Daventry, were planted on Thursday 18 March 2021 by Cllr. Lynne Taylor, Daventry Mayor and Paul Parsons, the High Sheriff of Northamptonshire, who gave a speech in a very low-key, Covid-friendly ceremony to recognise the significance of these trees.

"These trees are a very visible and enduring legacy, a potent symbol of the friendship between our two countries. The cherry plays an important part in the culture of Japan and represents beauty, peace and joy." said Paul Parsons, the High Sheriff of Northamptonshire.

Daventry Mayor Lynne Taylor remarked: "This is a very welcome gift from the Japanese people, and I hope many Daventry residents and visitors will take pleasure in seeing them here, especially during the spring when its renowned blossom appears."

Daventry Town Council wishes to thank those who run and support the Sakura Cherry Tree Project for their exceptional gift as these trees will provide many years of enjoyment for this and future generations in our town.

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A video of the ceremony can be viewed via our Daventry Town Council You Tube Channel.