A community story has come full circle as Cumberland Council’s Green Spaces team partnered with the Hutchinson family to return a well‑loved chestnut tree - affectionately known as Conk, to its original roots in Castle Park, Whitehaven.
Fifteen years ago, two‑year‑old Dylan Hutchinson picked up a conker during a family visit to Castle Park and planted it at home, hoping to watch it grow. With years of dedication and care from the Hutchinson family, it flourished into a thriving chestnut tree that became part of their family.
Now seventeen, Dylan has watched Conk grow significantly over the years. As the tree continued to mature, it became clear that it needed more space than the family garden could provide. After discussing options with the council’s Green Spaces team, the family chose to replant Conk back in Castle Park, returning it to the place where it first began and ensuring it has the room it needs to continue developing.
The replanting was carried out with the Hutchinson family working alongside council gardeners, helping to settle Conk into its new location, where it can be enjoyed by park visitors and continue to grow in a suitable environment.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“The Hutchinson family has looked after this tree for many years, and it was good to see them working with our Green Spaces team to help replant it. We’re pleased to have the tree back in the park where it has the space it needs to grow.
“We would like to thank the Hutchinson family for tending to Conk over the years.”
Dylan’s dad, Craig Hutchinson, added:
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who helped ensure Conk was successfully replanted in Castle Park. A special thank you to Callum and his team for their hard work, professionalism, and dedication in making this possible.”