Sir, – Some time ago I asked on behalf of Wensleydale Rotary Club if we might have land available to plant a small copse of trees to be a lasting tribute to those locals who gave their lives fighting in the First World War. The idea was to take up an offer by the Woodland Trust of trees to be given to communities for purposes such as this. As a club we discussed this and felt it a worthwhile project which we would like to see come about.

We asked Leyburn Town Council if they would allow this to take place on public land, preferably somewhere readily accessible to the public. We did suggest the Shawl may be a suitable place. The matter was discussed by the council and turned down as our offer was for 30 trees which were felt to be too many. Councillor Borman did suggest a single tree but as far as I am aware this also was turned down. No counter proposal was made by the council. We as a club are still of the view that this is something we would like to support and I write to ask if any landowner with a suitable piece of land anywhere in Wensleydale would be willing to support us in this. We do not wish to take ownership of the land but simply have access to plant a small copse and place a suitable plaque to explain it's significance.

The offer of free trees had to be accepted by early September, a date now passed but we as a club are willing to meet all costs which may arise and would very much like if possible to arrange for planting before November 11, Remembrance Day. Can anyone help?

JOHN MORTON

Park View, Leyburn, 01969-622971.