Saplings from famous sycamore tree bring hope

Sycamore Gap tree was illegally felled on 28 September 2023 - now 49 of its saplings will be planted across the UK - including three in Derbyshire

The saplings from a famous sycamore tree that was illegally felled will be planted in three locations across Derbyshire.

The Sycamore Gap, which once stood in a dip next to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, was chopped down back in September 2023 amidst a public outcry.

The National Trust, which is behind the Trees of Hope scheme, said it received 500 applications for 49 of its saplings.

Julie Heath, chief executive of Treetops Hospice in Risley, one of the recipients, said: "We're absolutely delighted. It seemed only right to apply for a sapling and we've got one."

The other Derbyshire recipients are the 161st Derby Scouts in Hilton and Swanwick School and Sports College.

The original tree was 49ft (15m) when it was chopped down.

The saplings are currently being cared for by National Trust's plant conservation centre.

The charity said they should be "strong and sturdy" ready to be planted during the winter of 2025/2026.

Treetops Hospice chief executive Julie Heath said they were delighted at the news

Julie Heath, chief executive of Treetops Hospice, told the BBC they are planning to mark the occasion with a special ceremony when the sapling arrives.

"When we heard about this, it just seemed so obvious that one should come to Treetops," she said.

"Our grounds are a place of healing, they're beautiful... we want to debunk the myth that hospices are scary, depressing and sad places - they're places of hope.

"We felt it was only right to apply and we've got one.

"The world was shocked when that tree was felled, and it is about hope. This will mean so much to so many people who come to use our services over the years."

Ms Heath said they would also be installing some caging around the sapling to "stop the rabbits nibbling it".

The sycamore tree saplings should be strong enough to be planted in winter of 2025/2026