COLCHESTER Castle’s iconic sycamore tree is set to light up the town as December’s month of festivities gets underway.
The historic tree on the castle’s roof has been adorned with its new bright white lights to complement the town centre’s present-themed Christmas lights and decorations.
The tree was originally planted by the then mayor’s daughter, in 1815, to celebrate the historic victory at the Battle of Waterloo.
The sycamore tree will now be shining in all its glory after its decorations are officially switched on at 4.15pm today by the High Steward of Colchester, Sir Bob Russell.
Sir Bob will be joined by his two grandchildren, Jessica, 13, and Sam Dines, nine, during what will be a special moment for the family.
The children’s mother, Nicola, then aged six, helped to replant the tree in 1987, mirroring the legend that the mayor’s daughter originally planted the tree in 1815.
Sir Bob said: “I am grateful to those responsible for lighting the tree on top of Colchester Castle that they have invited my two youngest grandchildren to do the honours this year.
“It was their mother who 34 years ago replanted the tree after it was removed for two years to allow repairs to be undertaken to the Castle walls.
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“As I was mayor in 1987 and she was my daughter, it made true the folklore the tree had been planted by the Mayor’s daughter.
“Colchester Castle is not only the largest keep built by the Normans more than 900 years ago, but also the only one which has a tree growing on top of it. Lighting it for Christmas is simply wonderful.”
Darius Laws, Colchester councillor responsible for economy, business and heritage, added: “Colchester Castle’s now iconic sycamore tree has a wonderful story attached to it.
“I am pleased we can once again highlight the importance of the sycamore to the town’s heritage and celebrate this during the festive season.
“I’m passionate about lighting up Colchester’s heritage and improving the public realm and this is a wonderful addition to the town’s Christmas lights.”
The lighting of the tree has been supported by the Welcome Back Fund, which is awarded by central Government.
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