A historic annual rose-planting ceremony took place once again as local environmental charity Earth Trust welcomed the chair of Oxfordshire County Council to plant a symbolic rose.

Councillor Alison Rooke joined Earth Trust volunteer gardeners Nigel and Patience Conie for the Wittenham Rose Ceremony in the trust’s garden grounds to plant the charisma rose, selected by the volunteers for its "striking and memorable" appearance.  

In February 1970, the original landowners of the Wittenham Clumps and Berkshire County Council made a historic agreement, which Oxfordshire took over after local government reorganisation in 1974.

The rose, presented annually by the council chair, serves as a symbolic peppercorn rent for public access to Wittenham Clumps, one of the most iconic and largest natural green spaces in Oxfordshire.

The planting follows the presentation of the rose at Earth Trust’s annual supporters’ say event, where Ms Rooke gave the rose to the trust’s Co-Chair Frank Nigriello.

During the event, Ms  Rooke also announced that Earth Trust has been selected as one of her three chosen charities for support this year, alongside Mind Vision and the Oxfordshire Branches of Parkinson's UK. 

Ms Alison Rooke, chair of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “It’s been a wonderful experience to take part in this symbolic activity with the presence of Earth Trust’s supporters.

“Earth Trust plays a crucial role in creating and managing spaces that enable both people and nature to thrive in balance, their efforts align with Oxfordshire County Council's role in ensuring access to green spaces, which is vital for addressing climate, biodiversity, and wellbeing issues.  

"We can't achieve these ambitions without the support and involvement of local people. The issues Earth Trust is tackling impact all of us.

“I'm thoroughly impressed with the vibrancy and diversity of Earth Trust's work, and the crucial role volunteers play in this.

“It's inspiring to see such dedication to our shared environmental goals.

“And I'm delighted to confirm Earth Trust as one of my chosen charities this year, recognising their invaluable contribution to our county.”

Verity Warne, director of Movement Building and Development at Earth Trust, said: “We’re honoured to once again welcome the Oxfordshire County Council to mark this significant moment in the calendar, and are deeply grateful for Cllr Rooke's support in choosing us as one of her charities.

“It’s always a key reminder of how far we’ve come as we continue to grow our impact in the name of championing greater access to green spaces.

“This rose embodies that cause and reminds us of the benefits of time spent in nature.

“We look forward to seeing it thrive, just as we hope to see our community and natural spaces flourish.”