Our 34-year-old daughter Becky died suddenly and unexpectedly in 2023, sending shock waves through our family.
One of the things we decided to do was plant trees in her memory.
We own a 2.5-acre field in Tyrone, on the banks of the Burn Dennett River, which was previously grazed land. We decided to establish a woodland there. We wanted it to look as natural as possible: rich in biodiversity and fitting into the local landscape as it developed.
We needed someone to help and found Carolyn Trimble of IndiWoods.
She spent time with us taking on board what we wanted, arranged the drawdown of the grant from the Woodland Trust, supplied 1700 native Irish trees, tree guards, stakes, and sent out a dynamic and efficient tree planting squad led by Richard Menary.
Carolyn agreed to leave a small area unplanted. She left us about 100 trees to be planted directly by our family, friends, neighbours and local community representatives on a special Memorial Day.
We were delighted with Carolyn’s professionalism, advice and support in dealing with all the practical aspects of the project.
As far as we can see, all of the trees have taken this first summer, and we have erected a sign, ‘Becky’s Wood’.
Phil and Bob, Becky’s parents.