A ROSE has been planted in Colchester’s Castle Park to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Friends of Castle Park say they had been unable to mark the occasion earlier in the year due to the summer’s “unsuitable weather conditions”.

The group, which promotes and cares for the park, finally planted the tribute just days after they celebrated the popular green space’s 130th anniversary.

The park was opened on October 20, 1892, as local dignitaries gathered to open its gates.

“We also celebrate this year the centenary anniversary of the purchase by the borough in 1922 of Colchester Castle and Hollytrees House and its extensive gardens,” said group member Elizabeth Fitt.

“These were not included the original purchase of land for the park and this hugely significant addition gave us the layout of the park as we know it today, the central major attraction of our soon-to-be city.

“Happy birthday indeed, Castle Park.”

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