A YOUNG tree facing an uncertain future has been given a new home in Bovey Tracey’s Mill Marsh Park.

The Field Maple, a native British species, was growing precariously close to an overgrown leat in the town’s Churchfields Drive and could have been lost to hedge trimming or swamped by the undergrowth.

But instead it has been lifted and replanted in the hugely popular play park area where it can thrive and be enjoyed by families for generations to come.

The relocation was organised by tree expert Michael Sansom who advises the voluntary Friends of Mill Marsh Park on all matters arboricultural.

‘We’re very grateful to Michael for all the help he gives and arranging the planting of this lovely tree which replaces another lost to accidental damage,’ said Mayor Cllr Sheila Brooke.

The team involved on the day included Richard Taylor from the Friends and Bovey Tracey Town Council Maintenance Officer Peter Burgess.

Also getting stuck in was seven-year-old Austin Stewart from Exeter, enjoying an extra day off as his school had been commandeered for use as a polling station.

‘Austin loves all things to do with nature,’ said mum Alexis.

‘We’ve come here today from Exeter as this is our favourite park, we can spend all day here, what with the play park and river.’

Alexis was further impressed when learning about the town’s discounted parking scheme, promoted by the Business 4 Bovey (B4B) group.

Anyone paying to use a Teignbridge District Council car park simply has to photograph their ticket as proof then enjoy a £1 refund on a £10 shop in participating retailers.

‘That’s a really great idea,’ she said.

Cllr Corin Burton, a B4B member and local trader, added: ‘The parking initiative is one tactic among our businesses’ efforts to increase footfall. The businesses collectively working together with and for the community.

‘By visiting just a handful of shops you can actually make money on your parking.’

The next big event in the town’s calendar is this Saturday’s Love Local Market when the high street will be closed to traffic and dozens of craft stalls open up for business.

Street food and live music is also on the agenda.

‘It’s an ideal opportunity to make the most of our discounted parking,’ said Cllr Burton.