Today, Thursday 14 April, the day before Good Friday Manton planted their ‘Judas Tree’ in honour of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, replacing the former old Cherry Tree that stood in nearly the same spot overlooking the Oddfellows Arms for many years.
Why a ‘Judas Tree’? Technically, to give it a proper scientific name it’s a Cercis Siliquastrum, or frequently known more colloquially as a ‘Love Tree’. Why? Because the flowers are in the shape of hearts. But how did it get the other name ‘Judas Tree? According to legend, Judas hanged himself from such a tree after betraying Jesus. From now on, or after a few years growth and once it’s become properly established and an identifiable feature of the village, its location might even inspire yet another soubriquet – that of a ‘Manton’ or ‘Oddfellows’ tree.
Apart from being distinctively ornamental, this type of tree doesn’t grow too high and due to the close proximity of telephone wires trees planted in Manton can’t be likely to grow too tall.
There is more than just a tree being planted on the green in this spot. To commemorate the Jubilee, as part of the Jubilee holiday celebrations on 5 June a time capsule will be placed at the base of the tree along with a plaque to mark the occasion.
Mantonfest together with Barbara Adams, The Residents Association and the Village Hall have funded this project.
Manton would like to thank Nigel from the Marlborough Town Council Grounds team for all of his advice and help.
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