The UK’s leading hardwood and panel products distributor, James Latham, is 250 years old this year and as a part of its celebrations, a special commemorative copse has been created as part of the National Forest.

Situated near Melbourne, Derbyshire, 250 Oak trees have been planted to create the copse, which as well as the obvious association with timber, also acknowledges Lathams’ continual commitment to environmental issues and sustainable forestry.

Lathams’ chairman Peter Latham and director Chris Sutton attended a special tree planting ceremony held by the National Forest and the RSA (Royal Sociey of Arts), where they learnt more about the work of the National Forest, and then they went to the site of the copse to plant the first trees.

Peter commented: "We are very proud to be able to boast 250 years in business and we wanted to find the perfect way to commemorate this achievement. After talking to the RSA, we decided that by establishing a copse and planting a tree for every year we have been trading, we would be creating a legacy that gives testament to Lathams’ environmental policies and that future generations of Lathams’ staff and friends can enjoy in another 250 years!"

For further information about the hardwoods, softwoods, panel products and hardwood flooring available at James Latham, contact the marketing department on 0116 257 3415, email marketing@lathams.co.uk, or visit the website, www.lathamtimber.co.uk.

-Ends-

For further media information, contact Catherine Brown or Tim Roberts on 0161 817 4200 or email Catherine.brown@connectpoint.co.uk .