Queen gives seal of approval to jubilee tree in Dorchester

Old Hardyeans Society members wrote to the Queen after planting the red cascade to congratulate her on reaching the milestone.

In response, Buckingham Palace chief clerk Christopher Sandamas, expressed Her Majesty’s gratitude.

The letter to president Michel Hooper-Immins says: “The Queen has asked me to thank you and members of the Old Hardyeans for your kind letter containing a message of loyal greetings to Her Majesty, sent on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of The Queen’s accession to the throne.

“Her Majesty was interested to learn that a red cascade tree was planted to commemorate the occasion and sends her best wishes to all concerned for a most memorable and enjoyable Diamond Jubilee year.”

Mr Hooper-Immins wrote the letter to the Queen after the Old Hardyeans planted the tree at the Borough Gardens in March and included a photo of the occasion, His message read: “I have great pleasure in conveying the warmest good wishes and congratulations to Your Majesty on the occasion of your Diamond Jubilee, on behalf of the Old Hardyeans – the old boys of Hardye’s School and Dorchester Grammar School. Our loyal greetings recognise the immense contribution made to the UK by Your Majesty over sixty magnificent years, for which we convey our heartfelt thanks.

“Your Majesty may like to know that I planted a red cascade tree in Dorchester Borough Gardens on March 20, as president of The Old Hardyeans, to commemorate your Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee.

“I said at the ceremony that this tree recognised our admiration for Your Majesty’s ‘long and distinguished record of service to the country and will improve the environment of our county town’.

“The press cuttings and a photograph are attached for your interest. May I conclude by sending our warmest wishes to HRH the Duke of Edinburgh for his full recovery to good health.”

Mr Hooper-Immins also recognised Dorchester Town Council for its co-operation in the planting.