In total 800 trees have been planted at 13 locations across the area, in memory of local people who lost their lives in the pandemic. This was the approximate number of deaths when the decision was made to plant the trees.

Council Leader John Ross said: “We recognise the impact the pandemic has had on everyone, but in particular to those who lost loved ones.

“We know nothing will ever take that heartbreak away, but we believe this will be a lasting and fitting tribute and allow time for quiet reflection and for people to mark their respect.

“It is very much a living memorial, and as the trees grow in size and bear fruit in the coming years, they will also highlight the importance of tree planting for the environment and future generations.”

Funding for the project came through the council’s Food Strategy. Trees are not marked with individual names but instead represent the community’s loss as a whole.

In addition to linking into the Food Strategy, the tree planting improves biodiversity, the amount of tree canopy in the area, and carbon removal. Local community groups and schools at each of the 13 locations were invited to help with planting arrangements and will make use of fruit crops in the future. 

The locations for the trees are: Overtoun Park in Rutherglen; Cambuslang Park; Stonefield Park in Blantyre; Bothwell Road Park and Chatelherault Country Park in Hamilton; Town Centre Park, James Hamilton Heritage Park and Calderglen Country Park, all in East Kilbride; Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park in Stonehouse; Strathaven Park; Biggar Burnbraes Park; and at Lanark Moor.