49 saplings from the iconic Sycamore Gap tree will be planted across the UK
- The Sycamore Gap tree was illegally cut down in September 2023, causing a national outcry.
- The National Trust has grown seedlings from the tree, with 49 saplings to be planted across the UK.
- These saplings serve as a symbol of hope and remembrance for the communities involved.
In September 2023, the Sycamore Gap tree, a beloved landmark beside Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, was illegally felled, sparking nationwide outrage. The iconic tree, measuring 49 feet, was a cherished symbol of British natural heritage and had drawn countless visitors over the years. Following the incident, two men were charged with criminal damage and are set to face trial in December 2024 after denying the charges. In remembrance of the tree, the National Trust announced the 'Trees of Hope' initiative exactly one year after its destruction, aiming to preserve the legacy of the Sycamore Gap tree. Under this initiative, the Trust has cultivated 49 saplings, with plans to distribute them to various communities across the UK as a symbol of hope and regeneration. Notably, one sapling will be planted at Hexham Abbey in memory of Holly Newton, a 15-year-old girl who was tragically murdered. Her mother expressed that the sapling represents a lasting tribute to her daughter, helping those who knew her to remember her impact. Additionally, the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds will also receive one of the saplings after a competitive selection process following nearly 500 applications. Scholar Catherine Nuttgens, leading the application review, acknowledged the deep emotional response prompted by the tree’s loss and emphasized the sapling project as a means to revitalize joy and hope throughout the nation.