A TREE has been planted in memory of one of the town’s greatest politicians.

Ipswich Star: A tree was planted in memory of Russell HarsantA tree was planted in memory of Russell Harsant (Image: Archant)

Friends and family gathered to watch councillor Liz Harsant plant a tree in Holywells Park in memory of her late husband and veteran Tory Russell.

The 78-year-old, who was a member of both the borough and county council, died at St Elizabeth Hospice on January 24 after a battle against cancer.

Mrs Harsant spoke of her husband’s love of the park after planting the beech tree.

She said: “Russell had lived all his life near Holywells Park and as a boy he had spent a great deal of time in the park with his friends.

“During the Second World War they would often scramble over the wall having been told not to go in the park because of fear of bombs and when one was dropped in the park Russell told me they couldn’t get in there fast enough.”

Mr Harsant represented St Clement’s ward for 12 years, with Holywells Park a central focus throughout his service.

Mrs Harsant added: “The park offers lasting friendships with dog walkers, wonderful play facilities for children and tranquillity when it is needed.

“It was a lovely sunny afternoon after all those dull days and I felt proud to be able to do this in Russell’s memory.”

In the days following his death, councillors and the town MP Ben Gummer paid tribute to a true “gentleman”.