Posted on 15th May
Newark and Sherwood District Council chair Coun Jean Hall has planted an oak tree seedling in Sconce and Devon Park to celebrate the district’s legacy of the Tour of Britain.
Last year, Newark and Sherwood welcomed the prestigious cycle race — the fourth time the district had held the race and the third time the finish was held at the Newark park.
Oak tree seedlings were presented to the jersey winners of Stage 4. The seedlings were grown from acorns from around the Major Oak, the legendary tree at the heart of Sherwood Forest.
Overall Stage 4 winner Paul Magnier of Soudal Quick-Step Pro Cycling Team, gifted his oak seedling back to the council and requested it be planted in Sconce and Devon Park.
The tree will stand as a reminder of the community spirit showcased during the Tour of Britain and its continued legacy in Newark and Sherwood.
Jean said: “The Tour of Britain was brilliant last year, the buzz around the district was absolutely electric, and it was so rewarding to see the community turn out to cheer on the cyclists.
“It isn’t often that we get the chance to see international sports stars competing live without having to pay for the privilege, and to think it was right on our doorstep.
“This oak tree will be here at Sconce and Devon Park for years to come, providing shade, comfort, and protection for residents and our beautiful wildlife for generations. It provides a lasting legacy of Newark and Sherwood’s involvement in the Tour of Britain and also all of the wonderful things we have to celebrate across our district.”
The tree is one of six donated back to the council by the Stage 4 jersey winners. All six trees will be planted in suitable locations in the park.
Claire Ward, mayor of the East Midlands, added: “It was an unforgettable experience and a superb opportunity to show what a great region we live in.
“Nearly 75 million visitors came to the region over the last year, supporting over 50,000 jobs worth £5bn to our visitor economy. Those of us who live and work here know what a superb place the East Midlands is to visit, and hosting the Tour of Britain enabled us to show this to the rest of the world.
“I thank Paul, along with the other Stage 4 jersey winners, for donating their oak seedlings back to the district council. These seedlings, grown from acorns from the legendary Major Oak in Sherwood Forest, symbolise our commitment to growth and sustainability, marking a lasting legacy of the Tour of Britain and our dedication to the heritage contained within our natural environment.”
