ALONG with a rowan tree planted in Alva, an acer crimson king has been planted in the ground of Forth Valley Royal Hospital as part of a living legacy for Queen Elizabeth.

The planting formed part of the same Queen's Green Canopy project that saw a tree planted at the Cochrane Hall last week.

Led by Lord Lieutenant Alan Simpson of Stirling and Falkirk, the tree has been placed in a grassed area at the front of the hospital near the entrance to the Renal Unit.

Cathie Cowan, NHS Forth Valley's chief executive, said: “The queen, accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, officially opened Forth Valley Royal Hospital on July 6, 2011, and I know that the staff, patients and members of the public who were present have many happy memories from this wonderful day.

“I’m therefore delighted that NHS Forth Valley is supporting The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative as this tree will further enhance the environment and provide a lasting legacy for staff, patients and visitors to enjoy in the future.”

LL Simpson added: “This tree should be taken to represent the selfless values of service to others that we celebrated in our late monarch and witness every day throughout the health service.”