Sycamore Gap tree saplings to be planted in county

Three saplings grown from the illegally felled Sycamore Gap tree are being planted in Derbyshire.

One of the saplings has already been planted at Swanwick School and Sports College, and two others are being installed at Treetops Hospice in Risley and Hilton Scout and Guide hut, the National Trust said.

The charity's Tree of Hope initiative received nearly 500 applications for the saplings grown from seeds rescued from the tree, which stood in a dip next to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, until two men cut it down in September 2023.

Amber Merrick-Potter, public engagement producer at the National Trust, said she was "looking forward to seeing the trees thrive" in Derbyshire.

After felling the tree, Daniel Michael Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, both from Cumbria, were jailed for four years and three months in July after being convicted of criminal damage.

Ms Merrick-Potter said the idea for the Trees of Hope was "all about community".

"The three locations chosen in Derbyshire - a school, a hospice, and a Scout group - all provide such valuable services to their communities and inspired us in their applications for a sapling," she said.

The National Trust said it was donating 49 saplings taken from the tree, one for each foot of the old tree's height.

Swanwick School and Sports College said students helped plant their sapling on Tuesday.

"It was a moment of real significance for our whole community - standing together as we planted a symbol of resilience, hope, and new beginnings," said head teacher Danielle England.

"This tree will grow at the heart of our school as a reminder of our shared strength, our commitment to nurturing every young person, and the belief that from small beginnings, great things can grow."

Scott Lea, director of marketing at Treetops Hospice, said it was "amazing" to be selected to have one of the saplings, which will be planted at the hospice on Friday.

"It's fantastic because Treetops does bring a lot of hope to a lot of people, both before and after death.

"We've got beautiful grounds that the people enjoy, including the community and this tree will sit wonderfully there.

"We're hoping it's something that will be there for a very long time and for many generations to enjoy in the future," said Mr Lea.

The 161st Derby Scouts in Hilton said its application to have a sapling honoured the group's "deep ties" to the outdoors.

"We're so proud to be part of this story by planting a tree in memory of the Sycamore Gap Tree.

"May its roots settle deeply into the earth and become a meaningful part of the life of this village," said scout volunteer Julie Hattersley.

The Scout group's sapling is due to be planted at its Scout hut on Saturday.

"From a sad and heart-breaking event, we can nurture one of the 49 saplings providing life, energy and joy," Ms Hattersley added.

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