Symbol of growth, new beginning

ANOTHER remembrance tree has been planted in a special garden for the bereaved.

Near And Near Funeral Directors is creating a unique place at the Vanson Centre, in Bradley.

The company is working in partnership with Green Futures to create a garden of remembrance by planting cherry trees.

And more than 100 people turned up to watch the second tree blessed and dedicated to the lives of people cared for by Near and Near in 2012.

The first tree was planted last year and organiser hope to continue the tradition for years to come.

Director Steven Near said: "The planting of the tree marks a new beginning for people.

"We have dedicated this tree to the people we have cared for in 2012 and will be planting another next year to remember those we help in 2013.

"Alongside the tree, we are placing a casket which contains messages of love to the dearly departed from well-wishers so that they will always be connected to this tree.

"This tree represents a place where people who have lost loved ones can come and spend time contemplating in a peaceful and personal setting.

"We have chosen to plant the trees in May as a symbol of growth and new beginnings that spring brings.

"People associate remembrance with cold days and we want them to see it in a brighter way and to lift people during a difficult time.

"The placing of this tree allows people to have somewhere personal they can come to spend time with loved ones.

"We have had a lot of support from families from last year and wish to continue this tradition for years to come.

"We are the oldest independent company in the town and we always like to do something different for the community."

Pete Allen, development officer at Green Futures, said: "I used to be an undertaker myself, working with Steve Near.

"This is a great place for people to come and spend time contemplating.

"We have already seen since the planting of the first tree a sporadic number of people coming out to spend time here.

"People are always welcome to spend time here in solitude, just come, sign in, and spend as long as you want in the peace of the cherry trees.

"We hope to continue to plant these trees in remembrance and are very proud to be a part of this project.

Green Futures is based at the Vanson Centre, in Bradley, and is open weekdays from 8.30am to 4.30pm.

This tree and last year's are focal points for folk to come to.

They can spend a peaceful time here contemplating the lives of those that have passed.

The cherry tree will become a symbol to all and when ever they see one it will bring fond memories and thoughts of loved ones.

It has a Celtic feel to it all, like being at one with nature and all of God's gifts.

This private yet open setting will also bring the possibility of mourners meeting different people and being able to share their memories with one another.

The tree will grow and so will this garden as more trees are planted each year.