Andover Trees United celebrates Jane Goodall's Roots & Shoots International Peace Day

Dr Jane Goodall, who is famous for her ground-breaking work with primates, invited Andover Trees United to host her educational charity Roots & Shoots International Day of Peace in the town on Friday 21st September.

Over 200 pupils, councillors, representatives and guests attended the parade in Harmony Woods, in which a giant peace dove took centre stage. Special thanks go to teachers and pupils at Andover C of E for making the giant dove.

Dr Goodall was unable to attend as she had duties linked to her role as a UN Messenger of Peace, but she sent a video message thanking the town for its hard work.

She said: “I was so happy to hear that the town of Andover was holding the parade this year, and I especially want to thank the Andover Trees United team and all of the volunteers for organizing this special day.

“I wanted to thank the amazing Roots & Shoots schools, the teachers and all of the young people involved in making the doves and spreading the important message of peace and I want to thank the Lord Lieutenant’s office and the town’s officials for all their support and understanding and I want to thank the residents of Andover and villages for participating.”

Town councillor Katherine Bird said: “If people want to see what Andover can do, they should look at Harmony Woods. Just see what’s going on there. It’s an amazing example of what community groups can do.”

Headteacher at Abbotts Ann Primary School, Jane Hall said: “Our children came back buzzing from the procession and had a super morning.”

Pupils attended from the following schools: Abbotts Ann C of E Primary, Andover C of E Primary, Harrow Way, Icknield, Mark Way, Pilgrim’s Cross, Portway Juniors, Rookwood, Vigo Primary and Winton.

The event was also celebrated with wonderful displays of doves and goodwill messages in schools as well as in Andover Library where 100s of doves made at the August Fun Fridays are on show.

Andover Trees United celebrates Jane Goodall's Roots & Shoots International Day of Peace in Harmony Woods