David Brookes, who farms 400 acres at Lower Loxley, near Uttoxeter, has just planted the pear and apple trees at the site of an historic orchard that has been lost over the decades.
The NFU West Midlands regional board chairman said: “We have planted fruit trees to regenerate the orchard here at Lower Loxley in memory of my late father George and also to honour Her Majesty following her death in September.
“This can be our addition to the Queen’s Green Canopy which has now been extended until March.
“I see this as just the start but the trees will bear fruit once the orchard is established and there will be obvious wildlife and habitat benefits so we will watch expectantly as the trees grow.
“We had an orchard on the farm 50 years ago on this spot, we are committed to producing food but also improving farm habitat and diversity and this adds to that goal.”
This is the latest in a series of projects at the family business and David has also upgraded the housing for their 200-strong herd of Holstein-Friesian cows - the investment will see additional animal health benefits and increased milk yields.
David, an Arla supplier and cooperative member, owns 270 acres and the rest of his land is on short term letting agreements.
He said he would now look into the possibility of further tree planting but there are also plans to restore hedgerows at the business.
George Brookes, David’s father, died aged 85 on 31 July and the well known dairy farmer was seen off by more than 300 friends, well-wishers and family members at the funeral at St Lawrence’s Church, Bramshall in August.
Before burial, his coffin was placed on a converted trailer attached to a classic Ford 4000 tractor for one last tour of the new cow shed at the family farm.
While His Majesty King Charles III has extended the Jubilee tree planting initiative, The Queen’s Green Canopy, until March following his mother’s death.
The initiative hoped to see a million trees planted across the United Kingdom, by individuals and organisations, to mark the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.