An innovative idea by Amroth Community Council has not only saved a commemorative tree in Pleasant Valley, Stepaside, but turned it into an amazing work of art for all to enjoy.

In 1977, a chestnut tree was planted to commemorate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, which thrived for almost 40 years on the green in the centre of the village. Unfortunately, it was vandalised in 2016, when the bark was cut from it in such a way as to kill the tree.

Being responsible for the tree, Amroth Community Council took expert advice during 2017, which recommended the felling of the tree. The council, however, felt that this was not the only option, given the significance of the tree, that it had been planted specifically and for future generations.

Other options were then discussed and explored, with the decision made to commission local arborist Dan Badham, of Church Farm Landscapes, to breathe new life into the tree by using it to create a wood carving.

The work took place at the end of 2017 and the tree has now been transformed, phoenix-like, into a wood sculpture depicting, appropriately, birds of prey; in particular owls, of which many are resident in the woods there. The sculpture is topped with a majestic Golden Eagle.

The community council are delighted with the finished work, as it means the commemoration is still in place and will be so for many years, whilst providing an attractive landmark for the village fully in keeping with its woodland setting.