A tree is not just for Christmas…

The University of St Andrews’ Eden Campus at Guardbridge has been “spruced” up this Christmas with the planting of a 20ft/6m tall living tree.

The living tree, a gift to the community of Guardbridge from the University and partners, Vital Energi, stands at the entrance to the old paper mill and is expected to become a fixture in the village for decades to come. More than 70 members of the local community attended the official gifting ceremony and ‘Switch on the lights’ event, held on Saturday 10 December 2016.

University Vice-Principal (Enterprise and Engagement) Professor Verity Brown pledged the University’s commitment to the village and lit the Christmas tree, surrounded by children from Guardbridge Primary School. Chair of the Guardbridge Community Council, Oli Walker gave “a big thank you to the University of St Andrews for planting a real  Christmas tree”.

Community and Corporate Engagement Manager, Geoff Morris, said of the event: “It is wonderful that the University can show it’s commitment to the local community through this gift. Eden Campus is of significant importance to the future of the University, and by extension to the village of Guardbridge. We are grateful for the warm reception we have been given, and are glad to do our part as good neighbours in the community.”

Earlier this month, the University officially commissioned its new biomass plant at the site as it aims to become the UK’s first carbon neutral university for energy usage.

Picture captions

Top: University Vice-Principal Verity Brown and Community Council Chair Oli Walker inspect the living tree and its new lights with local primary school pupil Lillie McKinnon

Bottom (from left): Chair of Guardbridge Community Council Oli Walker, Vice-Principal (Enterprise & Engagement) Professor Verity Brown and Community & Corporate Engagement Manager Geoff Morris at the newly lit tree in Guardbridge

Issued by the Press Office, University of St Andrews. Contact 01334 462530 or email [email protected]