ONE of Scotland’s “most important” trees has been seriously damaged by the fierce winds from Storm Eowyn.
The Darnley Sycamore, on Nitshill Road in the southside of Glasgow, is believed to be 5-600 years old – and is also said to have sheltered Mary, Queen of Scots.
However, images taken by The National’s photographer Colin Mearns show the ancient tree has been shattered by the storm winds, losing most of its biggest branches.
The tree’s trunk has survived and remains rooted in the ground, so it is unlikely to be dead.
“I am not sure if the Darnley Sycamore is salvageable given the extensive damage done by Storm Eowyn but let's hope so. It is, arguably, one of the most important trees in Scotland.”
Labour MSP Paul Sweeney added: “Sad to see. Hopefully, as the trunk is still rooted, it can be pruned back and saved.”
A plaque next to the tree informs visitors of its historic connections. It states: “According to legend, Henry Stewart, Lord Darnley and Mary Stuart Queen of Scots, his cousin, sat under this great sycamore tree when she nursed him back to health after an illness.
“Darnley and Mary stayed at Crookston Castle, his family seat. They married on July 29 1565; Darnley, an attractive but weak character, being 20 and Mary 23 years old.”
It adds: “As Darnley was also an heir to the English throne his assassination at Kirk O' Field, Edinburgh, on February 10 1567 was but another tale in the tragic story of the unfortunate Queen. But their son lived to be James VI of Scotland and James I of England in 1603.”
Sycamore trees are large deciduous trees that can live for several hundred years. They grow quickly in their early years and can reach heights of up to 35 metres.
The sycamore is not native to the UK but was introduced to Scotland, according to varying theories, either by the Romans or during the 16th century.
The damage to the Darnley Sycamore comes amid Storm Eowyn, which has seen much of Scotland’s south and central belt shut down amid a rare red weather warning.
Gusts of wind as strong as 100mph have been recorded and travel disruption has been widespread, with bridges and roads forced to closed.
All ScotRail trains have been cancelled until at least midday on Saturday, and all CalMac ferries have been cancelled for Friday.
