After the iconic Sycamore Gap tree was felled in September 2023, saplings from the tree are being given to charitable organizations, groups, and individuals as “trees of hope.” Among the 49 recipients of saplings all across the UK are the Holly Newton Memorial Fund, which was established to remember the 15-year-old who was murdered by her ex-boyfriend, and The Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds. Each of the saplings represents one foot of the felled tree, and they are being looked after at the National Trust’s Plant Conservation Centre until next winter when they should be strong enough to be planted.
The Holly Newton Memorial Fund is one of the recipients of the tree saplings, and it received the sapling in memory of the schoolgirl who was murdered in Hexham, Northumberland, in 2023. The murdered girl’s parents, who started the Holly’s Hope charity, received the sapling, and they said it would help inspire them to help other young people, in their efforts to raise awareness of warning signs young people should look out for in their first relationships. Micala Trussler, the mother of the murdered girl, expressed belief that the tree of hope would be a symbol for everyone who knew her daughter to reflect on her amazing life.
The idea of the “trees of hope” was inspired by the destruction of the Sycamore Gap tree, one of the most photographed spots in Britain. Nearly 500 applications were submitted after the charity invited companies or individuals to bid for a sapling. Arboriculture specialist Catherine Nuttgens led the judging, describing the initiative as a way of keeping the joy of the Sycamore Gap alive. The new homes for these saplings will be accessible to the public and will provide a source of hope and joy to all those who participate in the initiative.
The Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease at Seacroft Hospital, Leeds, is another recipient of the precious saplings. The sapling chosen for this center will be planted in the garden section, which the center hopes will provide comfort for families facing a similar diagnosis. The center was opened in memory of the former Leeds Rhino player who died from the disease in June. The hope becomes a symbol of hope and a source of strength to all those who come to the centre.
This initiative has brought people together and reminded them of the importance of rooting one’s self in the community and nature. Although the loss of the Sycamore Gap was a tragedy, the saplings have brought new life to families, aspiring young activists, and centers of hope and healing. The saplings are a reminder that hope and strength come from community and care
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