MORE than 200 trees will be planted across Southend to commemorate the centenary of Armistice Day.

The aim is for the trees to highlight the pathways soldiers took all those years ago.

Southend Council successfully bid for 215 trees through the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy, an initiative that looks to preserve and enhance forestation across the Commonwealth.

Lesley Salter, councillor responsible for healthy communities and wellbeing, said: “We are positively delighted that we are able to welcome the addition of over 200, UK native trees to Southend thanks to the wonderful work of the HRH Queen Elizabeth’s initiative – the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy.

“These trees will provide a stark reminder of the poignant historic importance of Southend during the First World War, and we hope they offer a serene location for people to contemplate the sacrifices of all those before us.”

The trees will be a mix of colourful and wildlife trees – including Hazel, Rowan and Silver Birch trees among others – and will be planted at locations to the east, centre and west of Southend.

Due to a lack of rain in the borough recently, the trees will be planted at a later date, and are currently being stored at the council’s parks nursery, Barling Road.

The pathway locations will be at Shoebury war memorial, Southchurch Park east, and Eastwood Park.

These pathways are open to further tree planting, and if charities or groups plan on planting trees to extend the pathway, this is something that could be considered.

For more information on the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy, please visit https://queenscommonwealthcanopy.org/