A new tree flourishes in the aftermath of a storm

Drumgullion Avenue residents Aíslinn Campbell and Susan McAleavey at the horse chestnut tree they transplanted after Storm Betty destroyed a rowan tree.

Storm Betty named by Met Éireann occurred on Friday 18th August 2023 which witnessed unseasonal wet and windy conditions across Ireland with Newry experiencing strong gusts.

Although not a significant storm Betty did have the strength to take down an aging rowan tree at Drumgullion Avenue in Newry much to the sadness of residents.

The storm having passed local men cut back branches from the fallen tree which were obstructing a pathway with NIHE contractors then removing the tree leaving a noticeable void at the green.

This was soon to be remedied when Susan McAleavey and Aíslinn Campbell hit upon the idea of getting a replacement tree.

August 18th 2023 the unseasonal strong gusts from Storm Betty were enough to bring down a rowan tree at Drumgullion Avenue, Newry.

Susan by chance had a horse chestnut tree she had been nurturing in a pot in her front garden from it was a delicate sapling which had outgrown its pot and was ideal for replanting.

The two Lisdrumgullion women soon got digging close to the location of the former rowan tree transplanting the horse chestnut with hopes it would continue to flourish.

As the winter passed this spring the tree has taken really well with its flowers (panicle) in full bloom for future generations to cherish and enjoy.