Sycamore Gap sapling brings hope to Elswick

A Newcastle community organisation has marked a symbolic moment as a sapling has been planted to honour a lost North East landmark.

The West End Women and Girls Centre in Elswick has received a young tree grown from the Sycamore Gap specimen as part of the National Trust’s Trees of Hope initiative. 

The sapling is one of 49 being distributed across the UK to create a lasting legacy for the much-loved tree on Hadrian’s Wall, which stood for more than 120 years before being illegally felled in 2023.

Planted in the centre’s community garden on November 28 by centre co-ordinator Huffty McHugh, the tree marks the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls, symbolising hope, resilience and a commitment to a future free from violence.

Huffty said: “This sapling from the iconic Sycamore Gap tree will grow strong and tall in our community garden.

“The Tree of Hope will represent a place of safety, as all public spaces should be safe for women and girls.”

West End Women and Girls Centre, the only open-access community-based centre of its kind in Newcastle, supports more than 10,000 women and girls each year. 

Through group work, skills development and community activities, the centre provides a safe and supportive space for women and girls aged five to 95, helping build confidence, unity and social change across the West End.

For information about West End Women and Girls Centre, visit www.westendwomenandgirls.co.uk

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