AN Ayrshire crematorium has planted 700 trees on behalf of every family and every service held at its site to remember lost loved ones.

At the end of May last year, Clyde Coast and Garnock Valley Crematorium made a commitment to plant a tree for every family and every service held and in that six-month period, they planted 700 native and ultra-rare species trees on behalf of families.

The whole planting process is being overseen by Peter Livingstone of Eadha, a specialist community enterprise based in Lochwinnoch, and leading experts in the conservation and development of woodlands.

With Peter’s expert help, the crematorium have been able to source and plant an important range of very special native tree saplings, including the beautiful Aspen, the ultra-rare Arran Whitebeam, alongside native Birch, Alder, Willow, Juniper, Hazel and Rowan.

A note of where the trees have been planted for each month allows families to know the overall area in which the living memorial to their loved one has been placed, and an audited certificate confirming the planting is also provided.

Philip Ewing, crematorium manager, said:“We have been truly overwhelmed by the response that we have received from our families towards this initiative.

“The simple act of planting of a tree on behalf of a loved one strikes a deep chord within, and it provides a true legacy, knowing that in time, the saplings will grow and create a whole new landscape, while also providing important shelter in which wildlife can seek protection.”

“The response has been so overwhelming, humbling and positive, that we are now committing to planting a tree for every family and every service that we hold this year, and we expect to plant in the region of 1000 trees over the next 12 months on behalf of families.”

Peter Livingstone from Eadha added: “Planting a tree is a noble gesture in itself and a highly fitting memorial to a life and the legacy of a loved one.

“The native tree planting that we are doing at the Clyde Coast and Garnock Valley Crematorium will have, in time, a significant and positive effect on the local landscape, while also helping to greatly enhance the local environment and biodiversity.”