A total of 250 trees were planted – one tree for each Cadet and Cadet Force Adult Volunteer (CFAV) within the company.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Chairman, Cllr Errol Thompson, Cadet King (13) Omagh Academy, Fivemiletown Detachment, Viscountess Brookeborough, Viscount Brookeborough KG KStJ, Cadet Magee (13) Omagh Academy, Fivemiletown Detachment, Commandant 1st

They were joined by the Lord Lieutenant for County Fermanagh; Viscount Brookeborough and Viscountess Brookeborough; Mrs. Catherine Maguire DL; the Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Errol Thompson; and 1st (NI) Bn Commandant, Colonel Adrian Donaldson MBE OStJ VR DL.

The Army Cadets gathered together on a stretch of selected ground at Castle Archdale country park on a fresh, bright spring afternoon.

Viscount Brookeborough KG KStJ, demonstrating and explaining to the cadets and CFAVs his tips for tree planting.

After a few words of instruction from Staff Sergeant Instructor Magee, the cadets, parents and instructors set about planting the young oak trees.

Momentous occasion

Viscount Brookeborough gave everyone a demonstration along with some very helpful tips for tree planting. He thanked everyone for their hard work and effort in taking part in such a momentous occasion.

Viscount Brookeborough KG KStJ, Viscountess Brookeborough, Commandant 1st (NI) Bn ACF, Colonel Donaldson MBE OStJ VR DL, Mrs Catherine Maguire DL, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Chairman, Cllr Errol Thompson, OC A Company, Major Dodds.

Colonel Adrian Donaldson MBE OStJ VR DL, Commandant of the 1st (Northern Ireland) Battalion, Army Cadet Force, said: “This is the third of four planned plantings carried out by the battalion to mark The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

“I commend A Company and all the Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, cadets and parents who took part for their hard work and enthusiasm, and I know that everyone enjoyed themselves.

“It was a remarkable opportunity not just to mark a major historical milestone in our nation, but also to contribute to the environment by planting 250 oak trees, many of which should last for hundreds of years.”

Cadets from A Company.

Those involved wanted to thank the Northern Ireland Environment Agency who provided the location; and Fivemiletown businesses Scott’s bakery, Beatty’s Spar and Co-op for donating the refreshments, buns and sweets. The ceremonial plaque was provided by the ACF.

The ceremonial plaque which was placed.