A smaller-than-usual tree planting event took place last week to commemorate a year of service
In what has become a decade-long annual tradition, a small, socially-distanced tree planting event was held at the new Forest of Marston Vale woodland site last week, with outgoing High Sheriff Susan Lousada marking the beginning of Eric Masih’s tenure.
The current High Sheriff and the High Sheriff in Nomination planted 10 trees at the Forest’s newest Community Woodland near Houghton Conquest during the visit, accompanied by the Forest of Marston Vale’s Forest Director James Russell and Commercial Director Grant Sorrell.
“We’re delighted to welcome the incumbent and incoming High Sheriff to the Forest of Marston Vale, and to have them both involved in the tree planting at our new site next to Houghton House” says Grant.
“The office of the High Sheriff has always been very supportive of our charity and the work that we do to connect our local communities with nature. From our conversations we know that this is a cause particularly close to incoming High Sheriff Eric Masih’s heart too, and we look forward to working with him during the course of his tenure.”
The current High Sheriff, Susan Lousada said: “What better way to mark the transition between two High Sheriffs than to plant trees!
“I would like to thank the Forest of Marston Vale for making this traditional handover event possible and, in doing so, we are also contributing to making our county a greener and more beautiful place.”
The office of High Sheriff dates back to the Saxon times and remains the Queen’s representative in Bedfordshire for law and order. They are still closely involved with the police, courts and judges within the county.
Susan Lousada has served as High Sheriff since 27 March 2020, and will be succeeded by Eric Masih from 7 April 2021.
To find out more about the new Community Woodland site being planted visit www.marstonvale.org.
