Tree planted in Cornwall to honour WW2 veterans

Past and serving RAF members attended the planting

An oak tree has been planted at a Royal Air Force (RAF) base in Cornwall to mark the end of World War Two 80 years ago.

The oak tree - donated by the head forester to the Duchy of Cornwall Geraint Richards - was planted at RAF St Mawgan.

The RAF said the tree formed part of the Veterans' Oak initiative - a nationwide community-led project to remember those who served "for generations to come".

Mr Richards said: "Our native oak trees live for many hundreds of years and so this tree will be a reminder of service and sacrifice, to current and future generations, affirming our promise - 'we will remember them'."

A plaque was placed in front of the oak tree to memorialise it

Station Commander Helen Simpson said the tree would stand at RAF St Mawgan "as a reminder that freedom is never free, and that we must cherish the legacy of those who came before us".

She said: "This oak tree is more than a symbol, it is a living testament to the courage, sacrifice and resilience of those who served during not just the Second World War but all conflicts before and after."

The RAF said the plaque would serve as "a lasting memorial and a living symbol of both gratitude and hope for generations to come".