A TREE has been planted as a tribute to the ‘unswerving respect’ of the people of Wootton Bassett at Repatriation ceremonies.

The English oak was planted in the grounds of St Bartholomew and All Saints Church to honour the residents, who stand in silence as fallen troops are carried through the town.

The Wiltshire Tree People, an organisation which works towards the conservation, planting and appreciation of trees, donated the oak.

Bishop John Neale, the group’s chairman, said: “I felt it was important to express our thanks to the people of Wootton Bassett for their unswerving respect at each fallen soldier’s repatriation.

“They represent so many of us who appreciate the regard they show others. The tree will stand as testimony of our regard for them.”

The short ceremony was attended by several local dignitaries, including local vicar, the Rev Canon Thomas Woodhouse, as well as North Wiltshire MP James Gray, and representatives from Wootton Bassett Royal British Legion and the town council.

Mary Champion, the mayor of Wootton Bassett, helped to break the ground for the tree.

“I think it’s a wonderful tribute to us because it’s something everyone can appreciate,” she said.

“And it will gradually grow and grow and then children in time to come will know our story and what Wootton Bassett did.”

Repatriations through the High Street, which started in 2007, are scheduled to come to an end in September in preparation for when RAF Lyneham is closed in 2012.

This week five servicemen were repatriated through the High Street and hundreds of people turned out to line the street and pay their respects.