In this, the first of a series of regular blog posts about our amazing tree sponsors, we pose eight questions to Anthony Gaylard about his decision to sponsor a tree in his street:
1. Where is the sponsor tree located and why did you choose that particular site?
Ermine Road. The street has very few street trees and looks bare especially at the Vicars Hill end. So I wanted to start to adjust the green space balance.
2. What species of tree did you select and why?
June Berry, also known as Snowy Mespilus (Amelanchier lamarckii). There are already two others on Ermine Road and I wanted to keep the look uniform for maximum effect. They are also very beautiful.
3. Why did you choose to sponsor a tree? Does it mark a special event or is it dedicated to someone?
We only recently moved into the area and wanted to mark the occasion for my daughter as well as giving her something to care for.
4. How long have you lived in the borough of Lewisham? Do you have any special memories you could share about the area?
Six months.
5. Do you have a favourite tree in the area, apart from your sponsor tree of course?
We recently planted two bonsai Olive trees (Olea europaea) at the front of our property to further enhance the green space on Ermine Road.
6. If there were no constraints what tree would you have chosen and why?
If I could I would plant the whole of Lewisham. Apart from the well-known positive effect trees have in our community, a well-planted street will have the effect of slowing traffic without the need for other traffic calming measures.
7. How did you learn about sponsoring a street tree through Street Trees for Living?
The label on the existing street trees.
8. What would you say to someone who is considering sponsoring a street tree?
I have found it very rewarding and I would highly encourage anyone to do so. It seems to have a lot of positive effects for the physical environment as well as bringing the community together as people seem to care more when green space is increased in an urban environment.
