The Queen’s Green Canopy

We are delighted that our Ebernoe Common nature reserve is featured as part of the Ancient Canopy to be dedicated to Her Majesty in celebration of the Platinum Jubilee

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, Patron of The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC), has unveiled a nationwide network of 70 Ancient Woodlands and 70 Ancient Trees to be dedicated to Her Majesty in celebration of the Platinum Jubilee.

To mark the launch, The Prince of Wales recorded a video message under one of the Ancient tree dedications – the old Sycamore at Dumfries House in Scotland. His Royal Highness said:

“…I am delighted to have the opportunity to launch this project in the grounds of Dumfries House under the majestic branches of this old Sycamore, which pre-dates the very House itself, having grown from seed more than 420 years ago. Planted in 1599, during the reigns of Queen Elizabeth I and King James VI, it is remarkable that this ancient tree is as old as Shakespeare’s Hamlet and Caravaggio’s David and Goliath.

These working woodlands and magnificent trees span our nation’s amazing landscape and exist for everyone to enjoy. The Ancient woodlands and trees can be found in urban as well as rural environments, from National Parks to residential areas, representing the unique diversity of all corners of the United Kingdom.

Trees and woodlands have a profound significance for us all – their steadfast and reassuring presence a reminder of our long serving Sovereign and her enduring dedication. Let us ensure that in her name we can now protect and strengthen this wonderful living Canopy for the next seventy years and, hopefully, way beyond. And, above all, let us ensure that future generations can celebrate and enjoy them.”

Established over hundreds of years, these irreplaceable habitats are rich in their natural and social history and ecology and have formed the backdrop to important moments in the history of our four nations. All have a unique story to tell – some are famous specimens, while others have local significance as natural wonders throughout our neighbourhoods.

By sharing the stories behind the Ancient woodlands and trees, as well as the incredible efforts that are made to protect them, The Queen’s Green Canopy aims to raise awareness of these treasured habitats and the importance of conserving them for future generations.

The Ancient Tree dedication marks the start of a long-term project to propagate material to ensure that the genetic resource and unique characteristics of some of the UK’s most important trees is preserved.

Ebernoe Common nature reserve has recently been expanded, thanks to the generosity of our Sussex Wildlife Trust members and supporters, with the addition of Willand Wood and the Warren.