A STOURPORT school recently held a tree planting ceremony to honour a long-serving councillor who died in October last year.

Lickhill Primary School, in Almond Way, held the ceremony to remember Independent Community and Health Concern councillor, Jim Parish.

The event was attended by Councillor Cliff Brewer – who was a close friend of Jim – and members of his family, including his youngest granddaughter, Katy, who is in year four at Lickhill Primary School.

Helen Davies, headteacher, said: “Jim had a fantastic relationship with the school and through his dedication and hard work, he provided our children with the opportunity to broaden the scope of their learning, providing valuable additional experiences for the whole school.

“Dedicating a tree within the school grounds is our way to honour Jim, and to ensure future pupils are aware of the tireless work he did, not only within school but within our local community too.”

Jim was integral in keeping the school open after it entered special measures in December 2008 and was facing closure. He continued to support the school through the provision of funding – which was primarily used to fund arts projects including theatre trips and travelling theatre groups to attend the school.