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When a tree in New Earswick had to be felled for safety reasons earlier this year, local children helped to turn it into something very special.
Children from the New Earswick Primary School and young visitors to the Folk Hall were invited to design a sculpture from the tree’s remaining stump, celebrating both the natural environment and their own creativity.
The competition attracted a fantastic response, with entries ranging from woodland creatures to imaginative fantasy characters.
Our Customer Access Team carefully reviewed all of the colourful and creative entries before selecting two winning designs: Oscar's owl and Evelyn's mouse.
Both ideas have now been brought to life by the renowned Yorkshire chainsaw artist Karl Barker of Yorkshire Carving. Next time you’re passing The Garth on White Rose Avenue, look out for a curious owl and a shy little mouse.
The winning children were invited to a grand unveiling of the sculpture earlier this month, and were presented with certificates by Chris Simpson, Managing Director and Adam Warren, Landscapes Manager.
What the children said
Oscar from the New Earswick Primary School, could hardly believe his drawing had come to life. " I can't believe the owl was created from my drawing. I'm going to show all my family when they come to visit!"
Evelyn a regular visitor to the New Earswick Swimming Pool and the Folk Hall was just as excited: "It's amazing that my mouse is part of the sculpture now. It makes me feel really proud."
A huge thank you to everyone who took part in the competition, along with the staff and pupils at the New Earswick Primary School, the Folk Hall and Karl Barker, for helping bring the project to life.
Word has already spread across New Earswick about the new woodland sculpture which celebrates creativity and community spirit as well as an opportunity to turn the loss of a tree into something that will be enjoyed for years to come.
Chris Simpson, Managing Director at JRHT, added: "At JRHT we're committed to creating places where people feel connected to their neighbourhoods. This project is a brilliant example of the community coming together to create something positive. The enthusiasm and imagination shown by the children has been inspiring, and we're delighted that their ideas will leave a lasting legacy for everyone to enjoy."
If you spot the new sculpture, we’d love to see your photos – tag us in on Facebook – Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust