Sapling planted in memory of boy who dreamed of visiting Sycamore Gap
- Fergus Yard was diagnosed with cancer shortly after his trip to visit the Sycamore Gap tree was postponed due to the pandemic.
- The iconic tree was cut down in September 2022, leading to widespread public outrage and legal action against the perpetrators.
- The planting of saplings from the felled tree serves as a tribute to Fergus and aims to foster community connection and hope.
Fergus Yard, a 12-year-old boy, had aspirations to walk Hadrian's Wall and visit the iconic Sycamore Gap tree with his father in 2020. Unfortunately, their plans were disrupted by the pandemic, and shortly after, Fergus was diagnosed with cancer. He passed away in May 2022, never having the chance to fulfill his dream. In a heartfelt tribute, his mother, Ruth, decided to plant one of the saplings grown from the felled Sycamore Gap tree in their local park in Backwell, near Bristol, where Fergus enjoyed playing cricket. The original tree, which had stood for approximately 300 years, was cut down in September 2022, leading to public outrage and the arrest of two individuals charged with criminal damage. The National Trust has since cultivated 49 saplings, representing the height of the original tree, and is gifting them to communities for planting in meaningful locations. The initiative aims to foster hope and connection with nature, with applications for saplings open until October 25.