Following the sadly reported detail that the remains of the Holy Thorn on Wearyall Hill had been removed, Glastonbury’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor called a meeting to understand the events leading up to the removal of the tree and to find a way forward. An open meeting was held on Monday evening 10th June in Glastonbury Town Hall where more than 80 people attended.
The Worshipful Mayor Cllr Denise Michell was pleased with the response. “Many people came to the meeting with anger in their hearts, seeking answers to the events leading up to the removal of the thorn” The evening opened with words from Reverend David MacGeoch, Vicar of Glastonbury and the lighting of the Glastonbury Unity Candle, a leading in prayer from Cllr. Michell followed with reflections from Morgana West, Director of the Pilgrim Reception Centre, on the events surrounding the Holy Thorn since its destruction in 2010.
Cllr Michell was delighted with the outcome. “We concluded that the re-planting of a Holy Thorn, preferably one that has been nurtured from cuttings following the vandalism of the last tree in 2010 should be planted there”. Cllr Cousins who led the discussion was pleased that the Conservation Society who do so much good work in Glastonbury would be pleased to support the re-planting of a tree on Wearyall Hill. “Regaining the presence of such an important part of Glastonbury’s spiritual heritage is our priority, yet many people spoke about their love of the hill, not just the tree which grew in and around it”. He continued “It is our intention to further research the opportunities to replant a Holy Thorn on Wearyall Hill. It is imperative if this project is to succeed, that we involve all stakeholders to ensure the safety of the tree and surrounding land”.