Northumberland’s first ‘Tree of Hope’ from a Sycamore Gap sapling has been planted at Hexham General Hospital.

On the morning of Wednesday, November 26, Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust held a ceremony to mark the planting of the Sycamore Gap sapling.

Through the National Trust’s ‘Trees of Hope’ programme, 49 saplings from the felled tree were awarded to organisations and individuals across the country who have had a significant positive impact on their community.

The trust was one of over 500 applicants and at the end of 2024 was announced as one of the recipients.

Staff and volunteers gathered for the planting of the sapling.

placeholder image — Staff and volunteers gathered for the planting of the sapling.

Damon Kent, managing director of Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management, planted the sapling and said: “Sycamore Gap is an important part of Northumberland’s heritage so we’re glad to have received a sapling so that the tree’s legacy can remain in its home county.

"Many of our staff, patients and visitors have fond memories of Sycamore Gap so it was deeply felt throughout the community when it was felled.

“A hospital is a place of hope so by planting the sapling here, we hope that people can see it is as a symbol of positivity and personal reflection.”

Andrew Poad, general manager for the National Trust’s Hadrian Wall properties said: “It’s incredible to think that the first “offspring” of this very famous tree are now being planted – it feels like just yesterday that those tentative first shoots appeared.

“To be able to keep the story of the Sycamore Gap alive in all corners of the UK and in so many settings is a fitting tribute, and we hope that, just like the original tree, these saplings will touch many people’s lives.”