A yew tree for every parish in the Land
The yew tree has long been regarded as the tree of life. What
isn't usually known is that yew trees are some of the oldest trees and pre-date
Christianity. Some are over 2,000 years old and it is thought that some might be
as old as 4,000 years old.
They were originally used by pagans as an assembly point for
rituals. Churches were often built on the site, so in many cases the yew tree
pre-dates the church and not vice versa.
Whilst the trees are poisonous to stock they have been found to
contain Taxol
which is a modern cure for cancer.
The Conservation Foundation is planning a Millennium Project to
plant a yew tree in every parish in the UK. The Church of England are assisting
in promoting the project. You could become a parish rep in finding a suitable
spot to plant these majestic trees. It is hoped that these ancient trees will
still be growing at the World reaches the year 3000!
For more information please contact:
The Conservation Foundation
1 Kensington Gore
London
SW7 2AR
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