AN EASTLEIGH College has received a gift from the Japanese government as part of a celebration of friendship. 

Barton Peveril Sixth Form College planted the tree from Japan as part of the Sakura Cherry Tree Project. 

The scheme represents the "150-years of friendship" between the United Kingdom and Japan, with trees being planted across the UK. 

Barton Peveril received the gift because of its Japanese language courses.

The college’s subject leader, Asuko Sekine, headed the campaign to be recognised in the project.

She said: “I am delighted that Barton Peveril has received the new cherry tree through the Sakura Cherry Tree Project. 

“This is a gift from the Japanese people and one of over 6,000 trees planted throughout the UK to celebrate a new era in UK - Japan friendship.  

“It is a comforting thought that it will grow and blossom year after year at Barton Peveril even after staff and students leave.  

I hope we, especially our students of Japanese, enjoy its flowering every spring. We might be able to do a 'Hana-mi - Cherry blossom viewing - next spring.” 

The college previously visited the Japanese Embassy in London in 2013.

Barton Peveril Principal, Jonathan Prest, added: "It is a real pleasure to plant a flowering cherry tree which was given so generously by the people of Japan.  

“For many years the college has taught students Japanese, thanks to our outstanding subject leader, who has also organised regular trips to Japan. 

“The tree sits in pride of place in the science centre gardens and joins several other specimens with dedications.

"Amongst them is the "Tree of Hope", an oak tree planted on Holocaust Memorial Day.  

“The gardens in the college are an important place for students to socialise, find some tranquillity, or in which to be thoughtful.  

“It is great that we can reflect upon the close friendship between two countries with such different cultures.

"It is also a lasting symbol of the importance of peace, friendship and positive values." 

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News