Sycamore Gap saplings ‘Trees of Hope’ gifted to recipients in Wales

The conservation charity invited applications for one of the saplings grown from seed on the anniversary of the felling of the much-loved tree, which took place on 27 September 2023 at Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland. Nearly 500 applications from across the UK were received for 49 saplings – one sapling to represent each foot in height that the tree was at the time of the illegal felling.

All the new homes for the saplings are publicly accessible spaces, enabling many more people to feel part of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree’s legacy. Recipients in Wales include Gower College Swansea, Better Life Appeal in Cardiff and each of the National Parks in Wales; Eryri (Snowdonia), Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) and Pembrokeshire Coast. The saplings are currently being cared for by the National Trust’s Plant Conservation Centre, and they should be strong and sturdy enough ready to plant out in winter 2025/26.

Andrew Poad, General Manager for the National Trust’s Hadrian Wall said: “Each and every application for a ‘Tree of Hope’ told heartfelt stories of people’s emotional connections to the Sycamore Gap tree and the importance of nature. They spoke of loss, hope and regeneration from all four corners of the UK, from towns, schools, colleges, community groups, hospitals and hospices, it’s been a privilege to read them all.

In Swansea, the Gower College Landscaping and Eco Construction department, will plant their Sycamore Gap sapling at its Green Hwb, which launched earlier this year to provide a dedicated outdoor space for students to learn and relax with a pond, polytunnel and orchard and a kitchen garden planned for next year.

The sapling will be cared for by the College’s Schools Group and Environmental Club. Local junior schools and groups will also be invited to visit the tree and learn from its story as told by the students at the College.

The Gower College Landscaping and Eco Construction team provide vocational programmes for young people aged 14-16, many of whom did not have a positive early experience of education. Unlike traditional classroom-based activities, the students work outdoors, learning about the environment and gaining practical skills that will boost their confidence and their employability.

Kirsten Collins, the College’s Assistant Learning Area Manager for the 14-16 Schools Programme, says: “The devastating news of the Sycamore Gap tree really impacted our staff and strengthened their resolve that education is vital for preserving not only our environment but also our history.

“The Sycamore Gap sapling will give our Green Hwb an identity, a focal point for renewal, a symbol for chance, for growth, for strength. An opportunity to share stories of the original tree, its heritage and the stories of the other saplings. A chance to reflect on our own stories, to take pride in where we are in the world despite adversity, to consider our connection to the world around us, and the impact that we have on the planet.

“The tree will be a poignant learning tool that grows with us, a symbol of our department, our College and our wider community, that is cared for and nurtured by our students year in year out, as they are cared for and nurtured by our incredible team of staff.”

For more information and to find out where in the UK all the 49 ‘Trees of Hope’ saplings will go visit Trees of Hope.