South Shropshire community rooting for Tree of the Year

The black poplar in Aston on Clun is recognised for its history, despite not actually being that old.

The current tree grew from a sapling from the original tree, which Shropshire Monuments dates back to the 15th century, after it dramatically collapsed in September 1995.

“The village rallied around and said ‘no – we aren’t going to lose our tree’,” said Sandra Spence, from the Arbor Tree Committee. “We persuaded the council to move the sapling there and they agreed.”

After the replacement Arbor Tree, genetically identical to the original, was replanted that December and began to grow so, too, did the village’s love for it.

Each year on the last Sunday in May, hundreds gather at the tree, in its imposing spot in the heart of the village, for a day of celebrations. It is adorned with flags, as has happened for as long as anyone can remember, while Morris dancers and entertainers put on a show.

“This tree tells an amazing story,” said Kirsty Stevens, who nominated it for the Woodland Trust competition.

“The tree has links with Princess Margaret and to John Hunt, leader of the successful Everest expedition.

“Perhaps more important than all of this is the fact that this tree has brought local people together in an annual celebration that has continued virtually unbroken for hundreds of years.”

It began in 1660, when Charles II came back to the throne and declared a national holiday – Oak Apple Day. “But in this particular parish there was a double celebration,” said Sandra. “In Cromwellian times their local vicar had been put in prison, and he was released a month after Charles’ return, so everyone had a reason to dress and celebrate the tree. There were descendants of that family around this area for at least another 150 years.”

Generations

Then, in 1786 another chance celebration meant the annual tradition of dressing the tree with flags on the last Sunday in May, by then well rooted in local custom, would be carried on by future generations.

That year Arbor Day, as it was known by then, coincided with the wedding day of local squire John Marston to Mary Carter. As the happy couple passed the tree they were so impressed that they donated money to have it decorated for years to come, a commitment that was to be honoured by the family for many years.

To mark this gesture, a mock wedding involving local children is always a part of the annual Arbor Day celebration. Looking to the future, there are big ambitions for the Arbor Tree.

“This year we involved local schoolchildren in designing a flag to represent their school and these hang on the tree alongside other flags representing different countries and groups,” said Kirsty. “There is much opportunity to expand this further, for example using the tree as a catalyst to tackle rural isolation.” through programmes such as yarn bombing or flag making.

“To win Tree of the Year would be an excellent call to arms for this very special poplar.”

To vote for the Arbor Tree, go to woodlandtrust.org.uk