North Tyneside Council has proudly planted its ‘Trees of Hope’ Sycamore Gap sapling at Rising Sun Country Park, creating a permanent place of reflection and remembrance for the community.
The sapling, named ‘Síoraí’ – meaning eternal or everlasting – now stands in the grounds of the park’s visitor centre overlooking the pond. As one of North Tyneside’s most loved green spaces, the park provides a fitting setting for the tree to grow and flourish at the heart of the community.
The planting forms part of the national ‘Trees of Hope’ initiative, established following the loss of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree. Saplings grown from its seeds have been gifted to communities across the UK as symbols of resilience, renewal and hope.
The project has been delivered in partnership with Cath Darling and the Trees of Hope Steering Group, who have worked closely with the Council to bring the sapling to North Tyneside and help shape a meaningful space for remembrance and reflection that will serve the community for years to come.
Families, residents and council representatives gathered for the ceremony, which began inside the visitor centre before moving to the planting site. Guests heard about the story of the original Sycamore Gap tree and the significance of the saplings being shared nationwide.
During the ceremony, children and families were invited to take part in the planting itself, helping to add soil around the roots. A short speech reflected on the tree’s deeper meaning as both a legacy for loved ones who have been lost and a living symbol of strength and togetherness.
The morning concluded with indoor craft activities and a book reading for younger visitors, offering families time to reflect and connect in a welcoming and supportive space.
Cllr Sandra Graham, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and the Climate Emergency at North Tyneside Council, said: “The planting of ‘Síoraí’ at Rising Sun Country Park marks an important and meaningful moment for North Tyneside. As one of the Sycamore Gap ‘Trees of Hope’, it stands as a symbol of remembrance, resilience and renewal.
“We are proud to have worked alongside Cath and the Trees of Hope Steering Group to create a space that will offer comfort and reflection for our community for many years to come.”
As ‘Síoraí’ grows, it will stand as a living tribute within one of North Tyneside’s treasured green spaces, somewhere people can pause, reflect and feel connected to both nature and one another for many years to come.