The Lieutenant Governor is planting a tree in Parade Gardens to launch a restoration fund, raising money to replace ttrees lost to Storm Ciarán.

The Jersey Tree Fund has been set up to help the island bounce back from the effects of Storm Ciarán on local biodiversity and wildlife.

One tree that fell in the hurricance force winds of 2 November 2023 was the Parade Gardens beech tree.

It was planted in 2008 by St Helier Constable Simon Crowcroft to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the end of World War I.

To replace it, Vice Admiral Jerry Kyd will plant a Liquidambar styraciflua.

In the autumn, islanders can look forward to the North American tree brightening up the area close to the cenotaph with its bold amber and scarlet leaves.

Alex Morel CEO of Jersey Trees for Life says people want to see trees lost to the storm replaced as quickly as possible, so the charity has established a fund specifically for that purpose.

“We are grateful to the Lieutenant Governor for initiating the replanting of our public spaces with this beautiful tree, gifted to the people who work and live in St Helier.”

The Jersey Tree Fund is looking for corporate sponsorship to help promote the project and contribute to the restoration and management of trees, hedgerows and woodlands.

The charity has already received a lot of donations from islanders and corporations, especially at Val De La Mare.

Jersey teachers volunteering within their community to replant after the storm. Thanks to Trees for Life Jersey for hosting is. We all had lots of fun! pic.twitter.com/WsoeOVjyAj

— NEU Jersey (@NEUnion_jersey) December 14, 2023

The reservoir and arboretum saw more than 100 trees destroyed in the storm.

Other badly affected areas include St Catherine's Woods, The Railway Walk and People's Park.

 Helier Smith from Jersey Water at storm-damaged Val de la Mare reservoir