A SUPERMARKET has teamed up with a borough council and a conservation group to create an avenue of trees.
Twenty-two oaks have been planted either side of the track running through the Leg O' Mutton field, near Waitrose in Cobham, to create a long-lasting feature for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.
Members of the public helped complete the planting by shovelling on the final layer of top soil at a special event on Saturday.
The supermarket chain teamed up with Elmbridge Borough Council and the Cobham Conservation Heritage Trust to mark the 75th anniversary of it joining the John Lewis Partnership, and donated £1,500 towards the planting.
Sir Gerald Acher, chairman of Cobham Conservation Heritage Trust, said: "I am thrilled that Waitrose, which is so important in the retail scene, is using this initiative for the benefit of the community in this very important open space in Cobham.
"We work well with both Waitrose and Elmbridge Borough Council on various separate initiatives.
"It is really great that we are all joined together on this important project.
"May all three organisations flourish for as long as these oak trees."
The idea of planting trees to mark the 75th anniversary came from Waitrose staff after managing director Mark Price asked for suggestions to be put forward.
Waitrose Cobham personnel manager Rob Leete said: "Tree planting is a fantastic way to celebrate the company's 75 years as part of the John Lewis Partnership.
"We are delighted to be doing something positive in the local community.
"All partners at Waitrose Cobham hope the avenue will leave a true legacy.
"It has also allowed a close working partnership between the council, Cobham Conservation Trust and Waitrose which has allowed such a great project to work."
Ian Gayton, green spaces manager at Elmbridge Borough Council added: "We are delighted to make a contribution to this valuable project which will benefit the environment and future generations.
"In addition to enhancing the area, it is also a fitting way of commemorating The John Lewis Partnership's commitment to the community."
