1995 February: Tree plant at Shaw Forest Park marks Chinese New Year of the Pig

Gloomy weather and deep mud did nothing to dampen spirits of the 6,000 people who turned up to the Great Western Community Forest Chinese New Year tree plant at Shaw Tip on 5 February.

The event supported by the Chinese Experience restaurant at Peatmoor Centre saw 5,800 trees planted, the beginnings of a park which will develop and mature over the next 50 years.

Large quantities of noodles prepared by the Swindon Chinese Community were consumed to confer good-luck on the new park in the Year of the Pig.

This was the first of four community tree plants that took place between 1995 and 2004. Along with planting on the 75 acre former landfill that became known as Shaw Forest Park, there are about 150,000 trees on the site.

Main picture, Graham, Sarah and June Roberts planting a tree with help from Great Western Community Forest team member Lorna Bell.