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Saplings from Sycamore Gap tree to spread hope
Image source, National Trust Images/John Millar
Saplings from a famous tree that was unlawfully cut down will be gifted to people, groups and organisations across the UK to spread a positive message as part of a campaign called 'Trees of Hope'.
The Sycamore Gap tree grew in the middle of a gap in Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland and was arguably the most famous tree in the UK.
People were sad and angry when it was cut down, but the good news is scientists took a collection of twigs and seeds to try and regrow new versions of it.
Now the National Trust has chosen 49 important causes that will receive a sapling, or small tree.
Image source, National Trust Images/James Dobson
Why are there 49 saplings?
The 49 saplings represent each foot in height that the tree was at the time it was cut down.
The National Trust asked for applications from people or groups who wanted one of the young trees at the end of September, a year on after the tree was chopped down.
The applications were judged by a panel of experts, led by tree specialist Catherine Nuttgens.
Catherine said: 鈥淭he stories have come from every corner of the UK and every walk of life. Their words reflect the hope and kindness that human beings are capable of, which feels like such a fitting response to the loss of this precious tree.鈥
The small trees are being cared for at the National Trust's Plant Conservation Centre, and should be strong enough and ready to plant next winter.
Image source, National Trust Images/James Dobson
Who will receive a 'Tree of Hope'?
The saplings' new homes will be in spaces people can access and also at a school.
The Tree Sanctuary in Coventry, which replants trees that are damaged or at risk of being cut down, will receive one.
The school closest to the Sycamore Gap tree and 15 UK National Parks are among other places to be awarded a young tree.
The Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in Leeds, which was created by the former Leeds Rhino rugby player, is also included.
It is set to open next year and will be the first specialist place to support people with the disease.
Andrew Poad, from the National Trust said: 鈥淭he tree meant so much to so many and through the 鈥楾rees of Hope鈥 initiative we are helping reach people across the nation, for generations to come."