The impressive canopy of large trees that lines the driveway upon entering the School owes its existence to the generous contribution of John Eke and his son Chris Eke (C85), who planted them in 1995.
As Chris and Andrew Eke (C91) departed Downside, with their brother Paul Eke (C97) in his final years, their father, John, wanted to offer a parting gift from the family. Together with Father Leo Maidlow Davis (B72), Chris met with Simon Barlett, Tree Guru, who recommended Field Maple (Acer Campestra) for the driveway and a variety of plants that could line the beds towards the Theatre and Old Gym. Virginia Creeper was also suggested for the wall of the Old Gym and either side of the Roberts Tower. Additionally, the family purchased two big brass lanterns which were placed outside the Worth Block.
Chris recalls the planting process vividly and shared his memories with us: ‘Dad and I went about digging holes, trailering compost form the Monks’ Garden and generally making fools of ourselves over a couple of weekends. We planted out the beds, dug in the creeper and ran cables for the electrics so somebody with a little more know how could spark up the lighting. Then with a ball of string and a wing and a prayer set about putting the trees for the drive in and hey presto they all survived… my gardening prowess matured very early and has certainly fallen apart since!’
Chris and John were photographed on the driveway during the Lent Term Super Saturday, with John expressing his thoughts: ‘Having had three sons in the School it was an absolute delight to return on Super Saturday and see the trees we had planted nearly 30 years previously… I wish I had planted a forest years ago!’
