On Wednesday 24th July friends and supporters of The Burn came together to remember James Russell who was killed in action on this date 75 years ago. The loss of a much-loved son resulted in The Burn being gifted to Goodenough College academic retreat and student holiday centre. In marking the 75th Anniversary of his death it was deemed appropriate to plant 75 trees in honour of James’s sacrifice.
As the principal host, Goodenough College Director, Rebecca Matthews attended alongside Trustees and staff. Andrew Brown QC, Chairman of The Burn Committee, and College Trustee, opened the event by talking about James Russell, his parents’ generous bequest, and the College Board’s recent recommitment to the The Burn as an important part of Goodenough. Guests were then invited into the garden for a short act of remembrance followed by the planting of the first batch of trees in glorious sunshine. A piper guided guests around the garden and, as each tree was planted, there was time to remember James and reflect on the loved ones chosen by each tree sponsor.
The project has now attracted pledges and funding for 53 of the 75 trees. Many of the donations have far exceeded the set targets and the level of interest continues to rise. The project has now firmly taken root and our heartfelt thanks go out to everyone involved for their enthusiasm and generosity.
Please consider sponsoring the planting of one or more trees. Sponsoring a tree could be a way of remembering someone or something special or commemorating a special time at the Burn. All sponsors will be awarded a certificate of association and appreciation and have their dedication recorded in a commemorative record that will be held at The Burn.
There are three levels of sponsorship:
1. £150 will buy an Italian Cypress to be planted in The Burn garden.
2. £200 will buy a Silver Birch to be planted along the banks of The Burn.
3. £250 will buy a focal point tree such as an Oak or Cedar to be planted at key locations within the Burn estate.
PLEASE NOTE – you will be directed to a page on the Goodenough College website where you can choose which level of support you would like to give.
The Burn, on behalf of Goodenough College, would like to thank all who sponsor a tree, and, in the words of Alexander Smith, ‘A man doesn’t plant a tree for himself. He plants it for posterity’.
