A Churchwarden writes: The Willow is restored and first signs of spring in our Hitchin churchyard

By A Churchwarden Writes

21st Jan 2023 | Local News

Read the eagerly-awaited return of our regular weekend columnist A Churchwarden Writes bringing you the latest from St Mary's Church in the heart of Hitchin

'In the Bleak Midwinter' of frozen January, amid ice flows on the Hiz and a scattering of snow, the first signs of snowdrops emerging herald that spring is on the way, and another new beginning is also unfolding on the popular Hitchin riverside.

You will have read this week [here] that the sad loss of the old Churchyard willow tree last autumn has now led to a young sapling taking its place.

In discussion with the relevant authorities and the St Mary's team it was agreed that although the old willow trunk would perhaps have regrown, this would have been unsafe and it was better to replace it with a fast growing young tree.

The search was then on for a suitable specimen which was large enough to have a head start and get going quickly.

Experts said that willows are quick to establish and grow so it was decided that planting a new heavy standard tree of around three metres tall was the best option. Part of the trunk of the old tree was be cut and left on site to be used as a bench and reminder of such a prominent and attractive tree.

Hitchin's community has now come together to repair one loss and to commemorate another in a poignant ceremony for a family to remember a loved one.

This came about partly through a chance conversation with Terry Brazier, one of St Mary's Churchwardens.

The willow was dedicated to the memory of Leanne Sara Osbourn (nee Emery), a former pupil at Hitchin Girls' School who had passed away aged 40, and leaves a young daughter. Leanne had passed away the day before her own daughter, Melissa's 13th birthday, almost two years ago.

"I first spoke to Leanne's mother, Julie, when she approached me while I was speaking to the contractors when the old Willow tree was being taken away," explained Terry, adding: "She spoke of her daughter Leanne Sara who planned her own funeral and asked that one day a Willow Tree be planted in her memory."

Various representatives along with the St Mary's team took part as the new tree was planted at a short service led by Rev Chris Bunce on Wednesday, (January 18).

The new tree will require 'TLC' and maintenance work for the next couple of years but it should grow swiftly and eventually take the place of its venerable predecessor in the iconic view of St Mary's East end.

As well as a reminder, the tree is a symbol of new life returning and continuing to grow and mature for all to enjoy in the future. Leanne's family planted some spring bulbs around the base, and have thought deeply about the symbolism of the planting.

Rev'd Chris Bunce, Team Rector of Hitchin added: "We were amazed by the community outpouring when the willow tree came down in September and it was fortuitous that at the same time Leanne Sara's parents shared with us her wishes to have a willow tree planted in her memory.

"We hope in the midst of their sadness, this tree will be beautiful reminder of her life and for the whole community a much loved icon of beauty and hope has been restored."

The weeping willow is also associated with grief and mourning in western countries, and it is common to find these trees engraved on tombstones.

However, it not only has somber associations — but the tree is also associated with immortality and rebirth and can therefore symbolise the endurance of love and family despite death.

The willow tree is sometimes referred to as the "weeping willow." This name comes from the way raindrops run down its long leaves, making it look like the tree is crying.

The weeping willow is therefore associated with grief and mourning in many cultures. It's common to find weeping willow trees in graveyards in Asian countries, particularly China. The willow tree is also featured in Asian folk tales and art, often in relation to loss and mourning.

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St Mary's news including services

St Mary's beautiful Christmas Tree is now also gone, but it was seen by many hundreds of visitors over the weeks of Advent and the Christmas holidays. However, this is the Third Sunday of Epiphany, which continues, and the crib is still to be found in front of the Altar until Candlemas is celebrated on Sunday. February 5.

Our regular morning services are at 8am and 10am, while this week Choral Evensong, with beautiful choir music, will take place at 6.30 pm. Join us also for morning prayer in Church Monday to Thursday at 9am.

If you can't come along you can watch on the Livestream and catch up on the Epiphany carol service and all the wonderful Christmas services in the archive at: