Chippenham’s Favourite Tree Competition Winner

We’re delighted to announce the winner of Chippenham’s Favourite Tree competition.

Following 30 nominations from across the town, eight finalists were shortlisted before being put to a public vote. A total of 185 votes were received.

And the winner is… the beautiful Weeping Willow at the junction of The Tinings and Blackbridge Road!

Thank you to everyone who nominated a tree and took part in the vote. It was wonderful to see so many of Chippenham’s trees celebrated by the community.

Everyone who nominated a tree was also entered into a prize draw to win a £100 National Garden Centre voucher. Congratulations to Melissa, who was selected at random and has collected her prize.

Our Arboricultural Officer has also shared some fascinating facts about willow trees, from their importance to wildlife to their uses throughout history.

“With their distinctive weeping form, willow trees are instantly recognisable and highly valued in landscapes for their elegance and beauty. Their cascading branches create movement and shade, while also providing valuable habitat for wildlife and a striking visual presence throughout the year.

Long associated with resilience, healing and a deep connection to nature, the willow has held a powerful place in mythology, literature and popular culture. In Greek mythology, the willow was sacred to Persephone, while Hans Christian Andersen used it as a symbol of friendship and love in Under the Willow Tree. More recently, the famous Whomping Willow from the Harry Potter series introduced a more formidable side to this much-loved tree.

Willows have also played an important role in traditional medicine for centuries. Infusions made from their bitter bark were used to treat fevers and colds, while young leaves and twigs were used to relieve inflammatory conditions in both people and livestock.

Beyond their cultural and medicinal significance, willows have long been valued for their versatile timber. The Celts used willow wood to make chariot wheels because of its ability to absorb shock without splintering. Today, willow is still used in the manufacture of cricket bats and stumps, traditional Dutch clogs and everyday items such as clothes pegs.”

Congratulations to our winning tree and thank you to everyone who took part.