TREES PLANTED IN MEMORY OF INSPIRATIONAL TEACHER

Staff and pupils at Ripon Cathedral Primary school have planted three trees to celebrate the memory of a much loved teacher, Mr Ebbage, who passed away last year.

The cherry trees, which will grow to around 30ft, were delivered and planted by Sodexo’s ground maintenance team after the headteacher approached its contract manager Mick Hasson, whose daughter attends the school, for advice. “The school wanted to pay homage to Mr Ebbage as he was a fantastic teacher who was well loved by pupils and colleagues alike,” said Mick. “When I was asked for guidance I pointed them in the direction of our supplier, who talked them through the various options for which trees would be most suitable. “I then organised for the delivery and planting and attended on the day to talk to the children about the importance of trees for the environment.” In line with the school’s commitment to sustainability, the Sodexo team also provided a mixture of recycled soil and compost to enhance rough sub soil that was on site. Mick talked the children through every part of the planting, from using cable avoidance tools to correct placement of the trees. “Everyone was very excited to see the digger and the dumper at the school and it was great to see how keen the pupils were to learn,” continues Mick. “The very fact that a memorial to such an inspirational teacher gave the opportunity to build on the children’s knowledge is very fitting and I am sure they will ensure the trees are very well looked after for years to come.” Sodexo also provided pencils made from recycled newspapers as a special reminder of the occasion.