Lasting legacy for much missed Dumfriesshire man

Memorial rowan tree is fitting tribute to caretaker Patrick

A Riverside Scotland community recently gathered to plant a tree at Sandside Community Garden in memory of Dumfries estate caretaker, Patrick Russell.

The ceremony was attended by Patrick’s family, friends, and colleagues, and the rowan tree was kindly donated by the not-for-profit social housing and regeneration organisation’s ground maintenance contractor, ID Verde.

Patrick’s partner, Linda McCormick said: “It so lovely that Patrick has been celebrated in this way by his work mates and the Stakeford community.

“A rowan was his favourite tree, and we’ll now have a special place to come and remember him. He’d be delighted.”

The memorial was the idea of Patrick’s colleague, Carol Wadsworth, who said: “Patrick was a valued member of our team known for his dedication, kindness, and hard work. I thought it would be a nice idea to plant a tree in his memory which will serve as a living tribute to Patrick’s legacy and the positive influence he had on both our team and the estate.”

Community garden chairperson, Paul McGregor, added: “The community garden is a space to bring the community together and combat isolation. A place where residents are welcome to come along and have a chat and cuppa – something Patrick enjoyed whilst working on the estate. I thought it would be fitting to plant the tree within the garden where we can all appreciate it and watch it grow through the coming years.”

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