A new weeping willow was planted at St Mary's churchyard in Hitchin on Wednesday, January 18 to replace the much-loved tree which fell there last year.

In a poignant ceremony, the tree was dedicated to the memory of Leanne Sara Osbourn (née Emery), a former Hitchin Girls' pupil who passed away two years ago aged 40, leaving a young daughter.

She always loved willows, and especially the old tree at St Mary's.

The Comet: Leanne Osbourn's family helped to plant the new willow tree.Leanne Osbourn's family helped to plant the new willow tree. (Image: St Mary's Church)

Terry Brazier, churchwarden at St Mary's, said: "I first spoke to Leanne Sara's mother, Julie, when she approached me while I was speaking to the contractors as the old willow tree was being taken away.

"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.

"Julie offered to help pay for a replacement, but North Herts Council said that it wouldn't be necessary - but that she could attend the planting and plant a few bulbs."

The Comet: Julie and Michael Emery with their son, Daniel.Julie and Michael Emery with their son, Daniel. (Image: St Mary's Church)

Despite the freezing conditions on Wednesday, North Herts Council put the tree in on the riverside site and Reverend Chris Bunce, vicar of St Mary's and team rector of Hitchin, led a dedication ceremony.

Leanne Sara's family were present and planted some daffodils close to the new tree.

Revd Chris Bunce said: "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."

North Herts Council provides grounds maintenance for the churchyard and worked with the church and residents on a suitable replacement.

Different options were considered, including allowing the stump to re-shoot, but it was collectively decided that the best, safest and most practicable option was to completely remove the tree, and plant another in its place.

As young trees are more vulnerable, North Herts Council decided to supply a slightly more mature willow which their contractors had been growing locally and were happy to use for the project.

Sarah Kingsley, place director at North Herts Council, said: “It was obviously sad to see such a prominent tree fall but we have done all we can to ensure that the new young specimen tree will be quick to establish and grow to a similar prominence.

“Part of the old trunk is already being used as a bench and reminder of such a prominent and attractive tree.”