SCHOOL children, teachers, councillors and residents took part in a peace walk that took them through Harmony Woods in Andover.

The beautiful meeting and procession was organised by Andover Tree's United in partnership with Jame Goodalls's Roots and Shoots to celebrate the International Day of Peace 2022, which took place on Wednesday, September 21.

All those involved met up at the East Anton Sports playing field where they proceeded to raise the giant doves of peace as they walked through the natural beauty of Harmony Woods an urban woodland.

They then listened to the Worshipful Mayor of Test Valley, Allen Dowden and Reverend Andy Fitchett talk about the importance of participating and celebrating world peace and equality.

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Children from Andover schools came with their teachers to celebrate the day.

This included children from Roman Way Primary School, Knights Enham School, Portway School and Rookwood School.

Serena Read from Andover Trees United said there were more than 200 people including children (160 ) and adults from the community who took part in the "peaceful and joyous procession".

She said: "There was a positive sense of unity, inclusivity and diversity.

"The giant doves were carried high as symbols of peace and all children were given the rightful choice and chance to carry these in a peaceful procession.

"Of the two giant doves made by local children and Andover Trees United, one was led by Cllr John Parker and teachers along with pupils and the other by Reverend Andy Fitchett, Andover Methodist Church and Angus Paterson, Worship and Eco Leader at St. Mary's Church."

Councillor Luigi Gregori also joined to take part in the procession and planting of the Peace tree Oak.

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Test Valley Mayor Allen Dowden attended and addressed walkers on the importance of peace and unity and congratulated all for joining in such a valuable event and worthwhile occasion. He later joined children and teachers and Wendy Davis, Founder, Andover Trees United to plant a celebratory 2022 Peace Day Oak tree in Harmony Woods.

Andover Trees United volunteers were on hand along the way and made sure there were plenty of refreshments on arrival at the peace meadow in Harmony Woods.