Messages of support needed for 'tree of hope'

People have been invited to write supportive messages as part of an art project that aims to help those going through to difficult times.

A 10-ft (3.5-m) wooden sculpture of a tree is on display outside the Church of St Peter and St. Paul, Abington Park, in Northampton.

Named "Tree of Hope", the project is a collaboration between the church and the Northampton Hope Centre. It will be there until harvest time in the summer.

People write messages on wooden leaves that are then displayed on the sculpture in the church garden.

It was designed by Leicester-based artist Bob Keal from Bob's Barn Creations, who helped the charity's woodworking group build the sculpture.

The Northampton Hope Centre is a charity that was set up in 1974. It supports people experiencing homelessness.

"The bare wooden tree contains branches ready to hang thousands of 'leaves', members of the public are encouraged to write short messages of hope and compassion to people who might be struggling at this time," said the charity.

"This might be an individual you know, someone special no longer in your life, or simply a demonstration of your compassion to those facing difficulties.

"Take part and watch the tree evolve through the seasons."

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