A CHESTER primary school welcomed a member of the Household Cavalry to help toast two landmark anniversaries.

Captain Spencer Taylor, of Her Majesty’s Household Cavalry, visited Saighton Primary School, where he had been a pupil, to plant a willow tree.

The ceremony was held not only to mark the school’s 150th birthday but also to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year.

After headteacher Mavis Sellers opened the presentation, pupils listened to Captain Taylor as he talked about his life and commitments in the cavalry.

He mentioned he had served in Afghanistan, where he shared soldiers’ accommodation with Prince Harry.

After interesting questions from the pupils, the baton passed to Christine Taylor, who read a poem created for the occasion.

In front of invited guests and governors, The Bishop of Chester, the Rt Rev Dr Peter Forster, then led prayers.

Christine Taylor said: “We had a lovely ceremony to mark the various occasions we were celebrating on the day and we hope by planting this weeping willow it will provide a lasting tribute to all.”

Captain Taylor was then invited to plant the weeping willow tree with the help of the children. The tree was provided and nurtured by Chester garden centre Roots ’n’ Shoots for many months with support from the Woodland Trust. The engraved spade was then presented to the school for pupils to use in the garden.

The bishop unveiled a commemorative plaque again with the help of pupils. The plaque was carved in seasoned oak and was provided by Chester Cathedral member Tom Brodbent, to commemorate the event.