From seed to symbol: a testament to resilience, remembrance and hope in Cornwall

We’re thrilled to share a remarkable story that highlights dedication, collaboration, and the importance of peace in our communities.

Sam Nicholls, a former member of the Cormac team who worked at Penmount Crematorium, embarked on a special project five years ago after discovering an article about a ginkgo tree that survived the atomic blast in Hiroshima. The tree was scorched and thought to be dead, but when spring came in 1946, new buds pushed through the charred bark and, against all the odds, it survived. Inspired by the tree’s resilience, Sam liaised with Hiroshima City, gaining permission to receive seeds from this living symbol of hope.

After successfully germinating the seeds, Sam gave the saplings to our Parks and Gardens team at Fox Rosehill Gardens, where they have nurtured them with care over the past four years. The team's efforts have played a vital role in ensuring the saplings flourished and thrived, growing strong enough to be part of the recent initiative across Cornwall.

This ginkgo sapling, now one of six, was celebrated during a special ceremony at New County Hall on 18 November. This event brought together representatives from Japanese local authorities, Cornish mayors, and community members.

Cllr Hilary Frank, who spoke at the ceremony, emphasised that the saplings are a reminder that “peace, like a tree, begins with care and patience".  The work of Sam and our dedicated Parks and Gardens team represents this sentiment perfectly, showing us how even the smallest acts of nurturing can lead to something far greater.

Along with a commemorative Cornish granite plaque, other trees will be planted at Fox Rosehill Gardens, Trewithen Gardens, Trebah Gardens, The Eden Project, and Pencarrow House and Gardens.

As the ginkgo trees take root in Cornwall, they stand as living testaments to resilience and hope. Let’s celebrate this inspiring journey from seed to symbol and the teamwork that made it possible!