THE Mayor of Warminster, Cllr Tony Nicklin, has launched the new Lake Pleasure Grounds Tree Trail on behalf of the town council.

Cllr Nicklin launched a printed booklet to go with the tree trail at the Pavilion Café situated in the Lake Pleasure Grounds.

He said: “There is a large amount of information here about the trees in the park. We would love you to come and visit.”

The booklet was written by local resident Harriet James, who gained support from Warminster Town Council to publish 1,000 copies.

“I am definitely not an expert but an enthusiast,” said Mrs James, who has lived in Warminster for the past 15 years.

“The park is full of trees and there is a strong connection with the USA. There are a lot of trees which have come from the Americas.”

Her booklet is packed full of fascinating facts about the flora and fauna in the park, including the 18 species of trees planted there.

Following the success of its Blue Plaque Trail, the free Tree Trail takes visitors on a one-kilometre walk around the Lake Pleasure Grounds.

At last Friday’s launch, Mrs James led visitors on a guided tour of the trees, which include Italian Alders, Hybrid Cockspur, Common Limes, Sycamore, English Oak, English Elm, Swamp Cypresses, Dawn Redwoods, a White Willow, Norway Maple, Common Beeches, Silver Birch, Horse Chestnut and Arizona Cypresses.

Among her audience were residents from the Ashwood Care Centre in Warminster, including 102-year-old Arthur Williams and his carer John Tullett.

Fairfield Farm College students at Dilton Marsh, who have helped to restore the Elizabeth Collins Memorial Garden in the Pleasure Grounds, also attended.

Copies of the booklet are available at the Pavilion Café, Warminster Civic Centre, the library and at http://www.warminster-tc.gov.uk/index.php