To mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Oswestry School has planted a sapling from the original Bramley apple tree on the Senior School grounds. During World War II, the humble Bramley apple played a vital role as a nutritious and accessible food resource, and this tree will stand as a symbol of gratitude for the part it played in the war effort.
The sapling was generously donated by renowned artist and conservationist Dan Llywelyn Hall, who has been fundraising to preserve the 220-year-old “mother tree” in Southwell, Nottinghamshire. His efforts have been featured in national media, highlighting the challenges faced by the original tree, including years of neglect and disease.
On Friday 16 May, Mr Llywelyn Hall — accompanied by Russ Kitely of Group 617, an organisation supporting veterans of the armed services, emergency services, and their families — joined Senior Deputy Head Rob Lane, members of the school’s CCF, and pupils for a special tree planting ceremony. The event not only honoured the legacy of the war years but also highlighted the importance of conserving our natural heritage for future generations.
