Ancient English Elm Saved from the Chop Becomes Stunning Golden Sculpture in Brighton
Preston Twins: 400-Year-Old Elms Turned Into Art
One of the world’s oldest English Elm trees, once doomed to the incinerator thanks to Elm Disease, is getting a spectacular makeover. This spring, a breathtaking gilded tree sculpture will be unveiled in Preston Park, Brighton, reunited with its surviving “twin.”
The Preston Twins have stood side-by-side in the city park since 1613, back in King James I’s day. But in 2019, one was felled by the disease that has ravaged elm populations across the UK for four decades.
Community Rallies to Preserve a Piece of History
Thanks to a huge community effort, the fallen elm is being transformed into a stunning memorial. Its interior will be gilded to symbolise how much locals treasure the tree. Artist Elpida Hadzi-Vasileva, who has given her time pro bono, has collaborated with local groups and businesses over two years to bring this vision to life.
A Golden Jewel for Preston Park
The sculpture will maintain the elm’s original shape and size but with a dazzling gold interior. It’s a fitting celebration of the Twins’ 400-year legacy and a tribute to their cultural importance. This unique project is the final chance to preserve a disappearing part of Preston’s history.
Preservation, Partnership & Future Plans
The transformation involved tough conservation work and structural treatments to keep the tree safe and stable. Brewers Decorator Centres supplied materials, while Brighton & Hove City Council, Arts Council England, South Downs National Park Authority, and local supporters footed the bill.
“We’re thrilled the tree will return home and live on in such a creative way,” said Councillor Elaine Hills, co-chair of Brighton & Hove’s Environment Committee.
Claire Kerr of the South Downs National Park added: “This project highlights the devastating effects of pests and diseases like Elm Disease on our landscapes.”
Later this year, the South Downs National Park will donate two disease-resistant elms to Preston Park as part of the Trees for the Downs initiative, helping replace trees lost to blight.
