A TOWN council has planted its first tree as part of an initiative to celebrate the Queen's milestone 70 years of service.

The first tree was planted in St Mary's Church in Maldon to mark the Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee.

Students and town councillors were joined by Lord Lieutenant Jennifer Tolhurst and town mayor David Ogg to plant the first of seven trees in celebration of the historic milestone.

The tree is accompanied by a special commemorative plaque.

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Maldon Town Council has committed to planting one tree for each decade of the Queen’s reign and as a contribution to tackling change in the climate.

This comes after the authority declared a climate emergency.

Carlie Mayes, environment committee chairman at the town council, said: "Trees are one of our most powerful weapons in the fight against climate change.

"They capture and store carbon, help to prevent flooding, reduce city temperatures, filter the air and provide vital habitats for wildlife.

"The town council is committed to doing its bit and more trees will be planted at the Plume Academy, Wentworth Primary School, Leeches Memorial Garden and in Fambridge Road."

More details about the Queen's Green Canopy initiative can be found online at queensgreencanopy.org.