THE Woodcraft Folk’s Biblins Youth Campsite at Whitchurch is one of the recipients of the 49 ‘Trees of Hope’ Sycamore Gap saplings, the National Trust has announced.

Nearly 500 applications were received for the 49 saplings – one to represent each foot in height that the tree was at the time of its unauthorised felling next to Hadrian's Wall near Crag Lough in Northumberland.

The saplings, which have been grown from its seed, are currently being cared for at the charity’s plant conservation centre, and they should be strong and sturdy enough ready to plant out in winter 2025/26.

The sapling’s new home on the Doward will be located in a publicly accessible space, enabling many more people to feel part of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree’s legacy.

Woodcraft Folk, one of the UK’s leading youth organisations is thrilled to be receiving one of the Sycamore Gap saplings at their Biblins Youth Campsite after years of empowering its young members to speak up for nature.

The charity runs over 250 local groups for young people nationally. Many of these groups visit Biblins each year for camping residentials and outdoor learning activities.

Biblins is situated in mature ancient woodlands which are highly valued by visiting groups as well as members of the public who explore the numerous footpaths that weave through the site and immerse themselves in nature.

The site is a perfect location for one of the saplings where young Woodcraft Folk participants who were very upset to hear of the destruction of the Sycamore Gap Tree can learn about the importance of nature conservation.

Biblins Centre manager Michael Lawrence said: “Trees have been an important symbol in Woodcraft Folk’s 100-year history. The charity's nature and environment principles encourage understanding, enjoyment and protection of our environment both locally and globally amongst our young members.

“The arrival of the Sycamore Gap sapling represents hope and we can’t think of a more significant way to celebrate our centenary than planting the sapling as we look ahead to the future of the next 100 years of our youth work”

Andrew Poad, general manager for the National Trust’s Hadrian Wall properties said: “Each and every application for a ‘Tree of Hope’ told heartfelt stories of people’s emotional connections to the Sycamore Gap tree and the importance of nature.

“They spoke of loss, hope and regeneration from all four corners of the country, it’s been a privilege to read them all.

“Each sapling will carry a message of hope with it as they start a new chapter not just for the tree but for all the 49 people and communities that will receive a sapling next year.”

Arboriculture specialist Catherine Nuttgens said: ““The loss of any tree can evoke strong emotions - none more so than the Sycamore Gap tree. Its destruction felt utterly senseless.

“But the ‘Trees of Hope initiative has kept that sense of joy and hope alive, and it has been truly humbling to read through so many applications but a difficult task to select the final 49 recipients.”