Her Majesty The Queen has announced her patronage of the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

Published: June 2, 2024 - Last updated 31 July 2024 - Please note: This blog was first published more than a year ago.
Westonbirt Arboretum

This month Her Majesty The Queen has announced her patronage of the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum. The charity based at Westonbirt Arboretum works in partnership with Forestry England to protect and conserve the 600 acres and 15,000 trees for people to enjoy.

Upon receiving the letter of confirmation from Buckingham Palace, Emma Griffiths, CEO of The Friends, expressed her gratitude, stating: "We're absolutely thrilled to have Her Majesty's continued support as our patron. Her endorsement will undoubtedly amplify our efforts to raise awareness about our vital conservation work and secure future funding for the Arboretum."

The announcement follows a recent invitation from His Majesty The King to attend a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on 21 May. Emma Griffiths and Jo Murray represented The Friends at this prestigious event, where members of the Royal Family connect with individuals from all walks of life who have made a positive impact on their community.

The Friends have recently awarded the arboretum with funds to update and replace the fleet of mobility scooters and wheelchairs, thereby enhancing accessibility for all visitors. Funds have also been raised to establish a community woodland at the arboretum with 600 individuals from local schools and community groups already planting 3,300 trees over the winter months.

Looking ahead, The Friends are supporting several exciting new initiatives, including the enhancement of play facilities at the arboretum, with a public consultation held earlier this month to gather input from visitors and members.

The charity also welcomes two new members to its Board of Trustees. Sarah Bryars, formerly the chief executive, co-owner, and director of an award-winning PR agency, who will be helping to raise the charity profile, and Sam Addadahine, who brings valuable experience in digital technology and software development.

Emma Griffiths shared her enthusiasm for the organisation's future, remarking: "It's an exhilarating time for our organisation as we celebrate our royal patronage and welcome our new trustees. Together, we are committed to realising our mission of securing a sustainable future for the Westonbirt Arboretum."

About The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum charity was established in 1985 with the mission to connect people with trees at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum. Today, the charity has around 36,000 members and supporters, many of whom are volunteers at the arboretum; all helping to conserve the 600-acre site, and its 15,000 trees and shrubs. Working in partnership with Forestry England, the charity ensures the continued success of Westonbirt Arboretum; safeguarding it as a resource for future generations by engaging, informing, and increasing its supporters, as well as providing financial and practical support with the vision for Westonbirt Arboretum to become a world leader in trees, inspiring people through conservation, education and participation. Visit fowa.org.uk