Hello,

We thought it would be a good idea to plant a tree to commemorate Maddy's life as the 1 year anniversary of her passing is upcoming. There's a great local charity called 'Birmingham Tree People' who organise, plant, and maintain Remembrance Trees...Click link HERE. Please do have a read of their website to gain a better understanding of what they do etc.

In short (from their website)... 'the charity was set up as part of the Tree Warden Scheme, by BCC‘s Tree Officers in 2016. Birmingham TreePeople is now separate from the city council but works in partnership with them as well as many other organisations to meet our charitable aims.'

They run a programme called 'Treememberence' where a commemorative tree can be planted in a local green space. They have a list of species to choose from, and are best connected to local governing bodies to secure the relevant permissions etc. We have explored going directly through the local parks associations, though we were directed to this charity upon doing so.

It costs £750 for this service. 'This includes the tree purchase, planting, aftercare, and any associated ceremony. It also considers the replacement tree if it fails in the first four years'

At this point in time, we think we would like to keep it a secret from Magdalene's parents, Tim and Vanessa. Maddy's siblings; Lawrence, Billy and Alice are aware of this fundraiser and have given it their blessing. Maddy's 1st anniversary is approaching so we feel it would be a nice gesture to Tim and Vanessa, and the Welch family, to be able to offer them this opportunity as a symbol of support, and respect for Maddy's life.

Any surplus funds raised will be given to the Welch family for them to decide a suitable use.