Magnificent ‘Avenue of Oaks’ planted in memory of Cheshire Show Secretary

AN avenue of oak trees has been planted in memory of former Cheshire Show Secretary David Broster, who died in May.

The mature oaks, each six to seven feet high, were planted at the entrance to the Cheshire Show's Showground, in Tabley, as a lasting tribute to David who died suddenly, aged 59, during preparations for the 2005 Cheshire Show.

Cheshire Agricultural Society, which organises the 169-year-old county show, planted the Avenue which will be known as The Broster Oaks.

The avenue includes a beautiful Cheshire Hawthorn hedge spanning 500 metres, as well as a special wildlife copse and plaque commemorating David's life.

John Platt, Chairman of the Cheshire Agricultural Society, said: "David dedicated 15 years of his life to developing Cheshire Show into the magnificent event it is today.

"Members of the Society were devastated when he died so suddenly and we wanted to celebrate his life in a lasting and meaningful way.

"The 20 oak trees and hawthorn hedge will span the entire length of the entrance to the Showground and will be enjoyed by the many thousands of people who visit the Show every year."

"As the years go by this is going to be a spectacular and beautiful sight."

The oak trees have been supplied by Chester-based Cheshire Landscapes and have been chosen by the Cheshire Agricultural Society because they are real 'Cheshire' oak trees – with a provenance in Cheshire.

The first oak was officially planted at a special dedication ceremony at 11am on Thursday, December 15. Sir Richard Baker Wilbraham, Cheshire Agricultural Society's President, attended the ceremony.

The Tabley Showground, near Knutsford, is situated just off the A556 road, about one mile west of Junction 19 of the M6 motorway.