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The moving story behind this newly protected tree in London suburb

A “beloved” rare tree growing on a street in London has now been granted extra protections under the law
A “beloved” rare tree growing on a street in London has now been granted extra protections under the law (Wandsworth Council)
  • A rare grapefruit tree growing on Queenstown Road in Battersea, London, has been issued with a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) by Wandsworth Council.
  • The tree, one of only a few grapefruit trees found outside Kew Gardens in the UK, was planted in the 1980s by the late resident Marline Anderson, who brought a sapling from Grenada.
  • The additional protection was granted following a successful campaign by locals, who sought to safeguard the beloved tree in Ms Anderson's memory after her passing.
  • Wandsworth Council's deputy leader, Kemi Akinola, confirmed the TPO was issued to ensure the local landmark stands for generations and to recognise the community's wishes.
  • Neighbours have also installed a plaque at the tree's site in Ms Anderson's honour, featuring a quote advising people to gather fallen fruit rather than picking it.
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