Many Stocksfield residents gathered at Painshawfield Common Land on Saturday (12th September) to see the unveiling of a very special wooden bench and information board.
The handcrafted bench and information board have been made from the timber of a rare Foxtail Pine, which stood on Painshawfield Common for more than 100 years.
One of nine conifers planted on the site in 1919 to celebrate the end of World War 1, the Foxtail Pine became Britain’s largest specimen. Despite being suited to colder climates, the tree survived until 2023, when it was sadly declared dead.
To ensure the tree’s legacy lives on, the Painshawfield Biodiversity Group commissioned local woodworker Alan Wear to handcraft the bench and the information board, which tells the story behind it.
The project received grants from Stocksfield Community Association Trading Arm (SCATA) and Stocksfield Parish Council and donations from Stocksfield Plants and Gardens Society and the Painshawfield Estate Committee.
Unveiling the information board, Norman Hooks, Chair of SCATA, said: “The Painshawfield Biodiversity Group’s project was one of only three to receive our annual grant this year. It is a fantastic idea and one which ensures the story of the historic Painshawfield Foxtail Pine continues to live on.”
The event was also held to showcase the work of volunteers from the Painshawfield Biodiversity Group who have planted native trees and wildflower borders on the Common to enhance the area for people and wildlife.
Denise Morphet, leader of the Painshawfield Biodiversity Group, said: “The work to enhance the Common has been ongoing for more than a decade since the first fruit trees were planted. We have a small team of volunteers who work tirelessly and, although the work can be challenging, it is incredibly rewarding to see our achievements here today. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported and contributed towards making this special project happen.”
Helen Rae, Chairperson of the Painshawfield Estate Committee, which manages the Common Land said: “This is a much-loved and well-used space, providing a safe and welcoming environment for local children, dog walkers or residents who simply want to sit, relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Denise and her team of dedicated volunteers have worked extremely hard to enhance this special area for the benefit of both the community and local wildlife. The Estate Committee was delighted to have been able to support their efforts, and it is wonderful to see all the hard work come to fruition.”
Tim Hills, Chair of Stocksfield Parish Council, said: “We were delighted to support such a worthwhile cause. It is a fitting end to a really unusual story.”
