A SMALL village in Chester's countryside marked the 200th anniversary of one of Britain's most famous naval victories.

Two centuries after Admiral Lord Nelson died defeating the Spanish and French off Cape Trafalgar, Churton Parish Council commemorated the battle when young parishioners Emma and Amanda Crump planted a specimen Ginko bilabo tree near the refurbished village pump to mark the occasion.

Fifty people turned out for the ceremony including Lt Alistair Campbell, representing the Royal Navy.

Those present at the planting also included Cllr Paul Roberts (Lib Dem, Farndon), his wife Cllr Vera Roberts and Cllr David Mundy, chairman of Churton Parish Council.

Thanking everyone for attending to commemorate the valour of those who fought on both sides of the battle, Churton parish councillor John Gallagher said:'I personally believe it is very important that on national celebrations like Trafalgar Day, the celebrations are not entirely left to the big cities.

'Villages like Churton now have an opportunity for their residents to reaffirm our sense of community.'

Cllr Gallagher believed that following the conflict, it was appropriate something beautiful had been planted for generations to come.

'I am particularly pleased for young Emma and Amanda because as they grow up, they can watch their tree grow and it will always serve to remind them of the day we celebrated the battle of Trafalgar.'

Cllr Gallagher concluded: 'We are honoured by the presence of the Royal Navy and once again I thank you all for coming together to join in this celebration of British courage.'