As reported in our November 2022 Newsletter, a tree is to be planted on Gateacre Village Green to celebrate the coronation of HM King Charles III. It is to be a Silver Birch - representing "new beginnings, renewal, purity and protection" in Celtic mythology - and will be funded by Liverpool City Council, thanks to our 3 Woolton Ward councillors (Kris Brown, Malcolm Kelly and Barbara Mace). Unfortunately, an inspection of the Green to choose a site for the tree revealed that two of the existing trees were dangerously decayed, and had to be felled as a matter of urgency. We are assured, however, that they will be replaced in due course.

To further celebrate the event, the Friends of Gateacre are organising what is described on their new Facebook page as "a family friendly Right Royal Knees Up". Between 12 noon and 6 pm on Bank Holiday Monday, 8th May, they will be organising entertainment, an arts and craft stall, and free face painting on the Green (just outside the Black Bull pub). There's an open invitation: "Bring your blankets, bring your portable chairs, food and drink... bring yourself, friends and family".

At 1.30pm a plaque - officially commemorating the planting of the new tree - will be unveiled by special guest the Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside.
Belle Vale Primary School and Gateacre School are both involved in the planning of the event, and the Black Bull and other local venues are planning their own activities alongside the community celebration. (Note that alcohol will not be permitted on the village green, only on licensed premises).