A NEW floral display has come into bloom for the first time at the National Memorial Arboretum after being donated by the Princess of Wales.
Eighty of the Catherine's Roses were gifted to the Alrewas venue as part of efforts to create "a striking new living feature".
The rose bed sits alongside the first memorial to be installed at the estate, a sculpted wooden Polar Bear commemorating the service of the 49th (West Riding) Infantry Division.
Named in honour of The Princess of Wales by the Royal Horticultural Society and bred by Harkness Roses, Catherine's Rose was created to "celebrate the healing power of nature" and raise awareness of the role that spending time outdoors can play in supporting mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing.
The new rose installation also sits alongside other horticultural features connected to the Prince and Princess of Wales, including the Wedding Cake Tree and wisteria propagated from the floral displays used at Westminster Abbey for their wedding.
Philippa Rawlinson, director of the National Memorial Arboretum, said:
"This beautiful donation from Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales reflects our shared values and belief in the importance of taking time to pause, reflect and remember.
"The symbolism intrinsic to Catherine’s Roses aligns closely with our mission as the Nation’s year-round place to remember and it is so fitting that they should first come into bloom as we celebrate our 25th anniversary.
"As the flowers come into bloom each year, they will create a living tribute that visitors can enjoy while taking time to remember loved ones, reflect on service and find comfort in nature.
"We are grateful for The Princess’ thoughtful support and her recognition of the important role that landscapes such as ours play in supporting wellbeing."
