New trees planted to honour Friends of Melton Country Park founders  

Three special trees have been planted in the Country Park to celebrate the Friends of Melton Country Park Group and honour those members that are no longer with us.  

Over the years, the volunteer group have supported the council’s Grounds Maintenance team in looking after the park, and this year marks their 20th anniversary, after they were founded in 2004 by Pam Posnett. 

Their work and positive impact can be seen throughout the park as they continuously create and plant new areas and trees, including the spring bulb planting, install and repair wildlife boxes, organise litter picks and undertake general maintenance to supplement the work done by the council. Multiple notable areas in the park were also developed by the group, including the community orchard and the sensory garden, in partnership with Melton in Bloom. 

The committed group of volunteers have also been instrumental in installing additional benches throughout the park, through their fundraising activities and founding members of the group Bill and Jean Forbes, also established the Seniors Walking group at the park. 

Sadly, Bill and Jean, recently passed and these special trees are dedicated to them and all the work they were involved in to help maintain the beautiful space in the heart of Melton Mowbray.  

Cllr Margaret Glancy, Portfolio Holder for Governance, Environment and Regulatory Services said, “Three White Hawthorn trees has been planted in memory of Bill and Jean Forbes, whose passion and dedication continues to inspire us all. 

“Both Bill and Jean were huge supporters of the Friends of Melton Country Park. Bill was Chair and Jean the Treasurer. Their enthusiasm, drive and passion for the Country Park was infectious, it brought together a diverse group of volunteers united by a common goal which continues today. They were dedicated in protecting the ecology, biodiversity and wildlife in the Country Park for future generations and this work continues in the safe hands of the current Friend of Melton Country Park.  

“Their continued vision and dedication have left an indelible mark on our Country Park, they helped create something for future generations to enjoy and cherish for which I would like to say, ‘thank you’ to Bill and Jean Forbes.” 

The trees are located near the “Circle of Life” Covid Memorial Garden, off Willow Drive and can be identified by the special plaque dedicated to the couple. 

~ends~ 

For more information please contact: communications@melton.gov.uk