Irish Guards muster for tree planting ceremony

The Irish Guards have gathered for a tree-planting ceremony at the Woodland Trust’s Brackfield Wood in the Faughan Valley, just outside Derry.

The Irish Guards, including men from the Regimental Association from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, were accompanied by their Irish Wolfhound mascot, named Domhnall.

An oak was planted in memory of those Irish Guardsmen who served in the war, especially those who died.  

Part of the Trust’s Centenary Woods project, Brackfield is one of just four flagship woods taking shape across the UK to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the First World War.

The Woodland Trust – with the help of local people and groups – has already planted 15,000 native saplings in Northern Ireland, as part of an ambitious 40,000 target.  

The trees will be a peaceful and flourishing tribute to the people of Ireland who lost lives and loved ones.

Woodland Trust director Patrick Cregg said: “We’re extremely grateful to the Irish Guards for joining us today to make such a poignant and lasting contribution.  And we hope that others, local people and visitors, will be encouraged to explore this precious young woodland.

“Brackfield Wood, by the banks of the stunning River Faughan, will be a place for quiet remembrance.  The saplings are already springing to life and, before too long, will provide much-needed homes for the valley’s precious wildlife, which includes the red squirrel. ”

The First World War Centenary Woods project is supported by the Trust’s lead partner Sainsbury's.  

www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/faughan