Celebrate a new Easter masterpiece

A number of knitted woodland animals which will be scattered around the gardens on the day.

Oldham Council is inviting residents to celebrate the completion of a natural wooden sculpture in Uppermill Gardens this Easter.

The masterpiece, which is to be shaped in the form of a heron, will be carved from the trunk of a recently felled cherry tree which has been in decline in recent years.

The sculpting will take place during the Easter school holidays with the finishing touches added next Friday, April 13.

To mark the occasion there will be a variety of woodland craft stalls and families can enjoy range of activities (10am-3pm).

A number of knitted woodland animals will also be hidden around the gardens on the day which, if found, can be taken home by residents.

This project initially came to light following detailed discussions with the council’s Arbor and Countryside Service over the tree’s deteriorating condition.

When a decision was made for the tree to be removed, it was seen as the perfect opportunity to create a lasting feature in the gardens with what remained of the trunk.

With the trunk’s prominent position and proximity to the nearby river and local wildlife – of which there have been several sightings of a heron on the riverbank – the costal bird was chosen as the figure to mark this carving.   

The heron has a variety of positive meanings and symbolisms in a number of cultures, including self-determination, self-reflection, inquisitiveness, curiosity and determination along with strength and patience.

This suited the sculpture’s location as it would be based near Uppermill Library and alongside the existing peace pole situated in the gardens.

Helen Lockwood, Executive Director of Economy, Skills and Neighbourhoods, said: “This is a fantastic way of preserving an iconic piece of the Uppermill landscape.

“So I encourage you to come down on the final day of sculpting to witness the reveal of this beautiful piece of art.”

A replacement tree will be planted following the felling of the previous cherry tree.