The future of the original Bramley tree is at risk as the Nottinghamshire cottage where it grows has been put up for sale
Campaigners have raised £10,000 out of a target of £250,000 to save an ancient Bramley tree, believed to be the ‘mother’ of all modern Bramleys.
The funds would be used to buy the house in Nottinghamshire where the 220-year old tree is growing in the garden, which they hope to turn into a heritage centre.
Singer and radio DJ Cerys Matthews is among supporters of the campaign, as well as Celia Stevens, the great granddaughter of the horticulturist who identified the potential of the Bramley variety, Henry Merryweather.
“Every Bramley apple tree in existence - in Britain, in Europe, across the world - descends from a single pip planted in Southwell around 1809,” a statement on the fundraising site reads.
The tree has been named twice as one of the 50 most important trees in the UK, included in the Queen’s Green Canopy, campaigners said.
It has been recognised as one of the 50 most important trees in Britain but has no legal protection, according to the Guardian.
“How many things are still commercially viable after more than 150 years? It’s a pretty good record and the Bramley has earned our respect for what it’s given this country,” Stevens told the paper.
