10 Comments
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M. Paula Coelho's avatar

I just read up on this story. This is so sad! Am I allowed to vote to help as well? Even though I don’t live in the UK? I opened the website and it didn’t seem like a restriction, so I just want to make sure.

Nigel Code, Author's avatar

It is open to anybody, so yes, please do.

I really appreciate this, thank you.

M. Paula Coelho's avatar

Of course ! I just voted !

Violet Encantada, PhD's avatar

It was cut down by vandals? That is truly horrible and sad.

Nigel Code, Author's avatar

It was cut down out of spite, and it was not just any old tree, it was a very special tree with emotional meaning to so many people. That is why the memorial is going to make such a difference, not just another bit of public art. It will allow people to move their thoughts to something new, something good from something bad, and all that goes with it.

Thank you for caring.

Violet Encantada, PhD's avatar

It just makes me sad that people get such a charge out of 'destroying.' I am a true tree lover, and I've found that some trees have such strong souls that people need them for their own healing and as a touchstone of sorts. I hope they catch the pests and flay them publicly.

Nigel Code, Author's avatar

It is no comfort for those who feel the loss of this lovely landmark, but the two men who cut down the tree were each jailed for four years and three months. When they get out they will be unemployable and social pariahs.

Meanwhile, life must go on, and this new sculpture will be a positive move forward, and will in some small way replace what has been lost.

Violet Encantada, PhD's avatar

And there are people who will remember that tree, and sometimes that has to be enough... 🌳

Debbie Buxton's avatar

I am sorry to say that I have never visited Sycamore Gap, but I was devastated by the vicious and appalling attack on the tree. So I'm putting my trust in your judgement, Nigel, and voting for your suggestion. I hope it will be a wonderful legacy, until the tree begins to flourish once more, as I'm sure someday it will.

Nigel Code, Author's avatar

Thank you.

It used to be a wonderful sight, growing tall in that hollow, right next to the 2000-year-old wall that still stands, in a rugged landscape where trees are rare. A new sculpture and all that will go with it will allow people to focus on the present rather than being saddened by the past.

I still owe you feedback on Someday, just struggling to put a few thoughts into words but I am working on it.