Members call in to Blenheim to check up on Saddlers’ Copse

74 members, family and friends visited Blenheim Palace in order to check up on progress at the Saddlers’ Copse – planted to commemorate the late Queen’s Jubilee and her theme of ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’ in 2022. All organised to perfection by Phil Duff. The 800 plus saplings are now well rooted and doing well.

The opportunity was also taken to see recent works on the estate focused around the creation of a sustainable environment for all to enjoy in the future; notably an inspirational tour kindly led by Estate Manager Roy Cox through the gardens to experience the sympathetic evolution of Capability Brown’s landscape 300 years after inception; ongoing repair work to the roof and interior of the Palace which forms the focal point of this UNESCO World Heritage Site granted in 1987 to recognize the site’s outstanding universal value to the Nation; and a wonder through the State Rooms.

The Company much appreciates the close relationship that has been established with the estate and look forward to exploring further opportunities that might align our charitable objectives with those of the Blenheim Heritage Foundation. One option under consideration is whether pupils from COLAI, Alleyn’s School, Southwark Special School, or XLP might benefit from an opportunity to spend a day learning more about sustainable farming practices.