A BABY from RAF Odiham has received a unique gift to cherish for the rest of her life.

A mature walnut tree has been planted at the military base to commemorate the birth of six-month-old Sarah Woolverson, at the request of her proud mum, Yvonne.

"I found out that Hart District Council is running a 'new tree for a new baby' scheme, and, since we live in quarters, I didn't want to plant the tree there as we are likely to move on in a few years," said Yvonne, 38, who is married to Corporal David Woolverson of the Chinook Aircraft Servicing Flight.

Yvonne contacted the station commander at the base and it was arranged for the tree to be planted at a conservation area on the base instead.

"This is nice for two reasons," said Yvonne. "Firstly, it is something permanent to mark Sarah's birth that she will be able to come back and visit in future. Secondly, it is doing something to help the environment."

A special ceremony was held during which the tree was planted. The site also features a plaque with Sarah's name on it.

"Sarah came to the ceremony, but she was completely oblivious to what was going on and concentrated on her favourite past-time which is sucking her toes!" said Yvonne.

Cpl Woolverson has been on detachment in the Falkland Islands since January, and is due to return next month.

"I'm sad David could not be here to attend the ceremony," said Yvonne. "I haven't told him about the tree, as I am keeping it as a nice surprise for him to see when he gets back."