A sapling grafted from what is thought to be the world’s second oldest standing apple tree was planted at Milton Park on behalf of His Majesty, King Charles III, to commemorate his coronation on the day of his 75th birthday.
The ‘Milton Wonder’ sapling was planted by the Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Mrs Marjorie Glasgow BEM, the Chairman of Oxfordshire County Council, Felix Bloomfield and Philip Campbell from Milton Park.
Attendees included Vice Lord-Lieutenant Brian Buchan and business leaders from some of Milton Park’s largest occupiers.
Read more: Marjorie Glasgow appointed as Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire
The Milton Wonder cultivar takes its name from a local variety of tree, which dates back to 1810 in the nearby Milton Village and is nationally significant for its age, provenance and excellent fruit.
The planting of the tree followed the King and Queen’s earlier visit to the SOFEA food bank in Didcot.
Philip Campbell, Commercial Director at MEPC Milton Park, said: “It was an immense honour to participate in the tree planting ceremony to mark His Majesty, the King’s Coronation.
“With the Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire and Vice Lord Lieutenant Brian Buchan’s kind assistance, a second sapling was presented to the King as a birthday gift.
“The apple remains a symbol of scientific discoveries and eureka moments, an apt nod to the wondrous innovations of our occupiers here at the Park. This tree-planting is also representative of our continued commitment to biodiversity and celebrates His Majesty’s passion for the environment.”
Located between Didcot and Abingdon, Milton Park is a leading science, technology and business park and community in Oxfordshire and one of the largest in Europe.
It is a collaborative working environment and a welcoming community that fuels innovation and sustainable growth for more than 270 companies and 9,000 people.
With three million sq ft (278,709 sq m) of offices, laboratories, warehouses and a diverse range of amenities, Milton Park occupies 214 acres, of which 43 acres is open space landscaped with water, shrubs, grass and trees.
Its primary responsibility is to its customers with a duty to create a home for dynamic companies, small or large, thanks to an inspiring landscape, unrivalled connectivity and welcome humanity.
It facilitates life-changing discoveries and conversations between companies, local and national government, research, academia, education, residents and all relevant stakeholders.
Read more: Explore Milton Park inspires nearly 1,000 Didcot students to consider careers in STEAM
By managing the buildings and infrastructure in sustainable ways, the environment is enhanced, and flexibility is given for each company to realise its full potential.
Milton Park provides a place where collaboration and the fusion of ideas can flourish and talent can thrive. Social and cultural life are integral to Milton Park. As a member of the community, people can enjoy its many amenities and events.
