North West Cancer Research has unveiled its first Tree of Hope at Thornton Garden of Rest, Liverpool, which serves as a tribute to those lost to cancer and a symbol of hope for a future free from the disease.
The unveiling ceremony brought together supporters, families, and local dignitaries, including Mayor of Sefton June Burns and Councillor Peter Harvey.
Alastair Richards, CEO of North West Cancer Research, welcomed attendees and spoke about the Charity’s vital work in funding ground-breaking cancer research and raising awareness of the disease. He also shared the inspiration behind the Tree of Hope, a place where families can commemorate loved ones by adding engraved memory leaves, creating a permanent and meaningful tribute.
Following the speeches, guests ventured outside for the tree’s official unveiling. Three families with close ties to the Charity were given the honour of placing their leaves each engraved with the name of their loved one. The touching moment symbolised the significance of the tree as a place of reflection and remembrance.
Sharing her personal experience, Mayor of Sefton June Burns spoke movingly about losing her husband to pancreatic cancer and her appreciation for the Charity. She said of the event: “It was my honour to be invited to the unveiling of the first Tree of Hope, a beautiful reminder for people whose loved ones were lost to cancer, while also raising funds for vital research into this awful disease and hopefully eradicating cancer for our future generations.”
Councillor Peter Harvey also highlighted the tree’s importance as a place of solace: “The Tree of Hope and its surrounding area gives people a chance to remember loved ones. It offers a space to reflect, to celebrate someone’s life, and to seek a sense of perspective for our own lives. Partnerships with organisations such as North West Cancer Research are a priority for us.
“Sefton Council was delighted to support this project, and staff have been thrilled to see what it means to people from our community. We are looking forward to the Tree of Hope further growing in people’s hearts.”
Among the attendees was Brian Quinn, who placed a leaf in memory of his father, Brian. He shared his gratitude for the Charity’s thoughtful memorial: “A heartfelt thank you to the entire team at North West Cancer Research for curating such a meaningful and beautiful memorial. It is a place that will offer reflection, remembrance, and hope for so many families.
“Our family is especially grateful for the tribute to our father. A special thank you to the North West Cancer Research team for their care, creativity, and dedication to this project. I’m proud to support the Charity and their continued mission in cancer research and community support.”
Charity CEO, Alastair, said: “It’s been great watching this project get off the ground and come to life. We’re proud to be able to present the people of Sefton and beyond with a place they can come and sit with loved ones they’ve lost.
“The support we have received so far, especially from Sefton Council and our supporters who have been the first to buy a leaf, has been heartwarming to see. We know this will be a special place for so many people. Every memory leaf purchased for the Tree of Hope is directly funding cancer research projects right here in our region, and supporting us in our mission for a cancer-free future.”
The Tree of Hope will continue to grow as more families add memory leaves, creating a lasting tribute that not only honours loved ones but also funds vital cancer research.
