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Tree Dressing is an ancient tradition surviving throughout the world. Tree Dressing most often occurred during the autumn (usually held on October 31st or November 1st ) to celebrate the gathering of the harvest or at 'Midwinter Solstice' (December 22nd), to give thanks for abundance and to look forward to the coming of spring and regrowth. |
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Originally used during agricultural and religious festivals, the custom has now moved forward to the present day celebrating weddings, special occasions - and trees! The custom of Tree Dressing also reminds us of our ancient cultural heritage. Trees provide a valuable habitat for wildlife. The longest living, largest life-form on our planet, trees give vitality and meaning to local areas. Deciduous varieties keep us in touch with the seasons. |
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Trees improve the quality of the air by trapping dust particles, conditioning the air and acting as a shelter from pollutants. Shapes within trees excite our imagination and are full of cultural, inspirational and historic interest. Despite protest we are still losing irreplaceable tracts of ancient woodland (more than half has gone during the last forty years). We each use approximately two trees worth of paper products every year. The circulation of only one popular newspaper results in the consuming of four thousand trees.
Remember - for some trees life begins at four hundred! |
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The Mayor of Preston, Councillor Geoffrey Swarbrick and his wife Jean, open "The Tree Dressing in the Park". |
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Environmental sculptor Sarah Gallagher works on a graceful willow-cane sculpture called "Victorian Lady", sponsored by The Friends of Winckley Square. Over time the structure will take root and, retaining its shape, develop into a mature willow tree.
Note. The sculpture was stolen on the night of 4th December 1999.
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| Editors Note
Study me then, you who shall lovers be Lines from John Donne's "Nocturne upon St. Lucie's Day" |
The willow sculpture was vandalised on the night of 4th December 1999. It was then taken home by a local resident for safe keeping. It has been replanted in Winckley Square Gardens by Preston Borough Council's Leisure Services Department. The sculpture was returned to the Square (although minus the parasol) and hopefully the willow will send out shoots and the lady will begin to grow to become a local landmark in the Square.
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