‘Table for the Nation’ measures over 40 feet and can trace its roots from a tree over 5000 years old, buried in the Norfolk Fens near Downham Market. In 2012 Hamish Low and his team made this discovery. Their vision is to try and preserve the full length of this exceptional tree in the form of an iconic table, placing it within the main body of Ely Cathedral as a gift to the nation. By initially housing the table in Ely Cathedral they hope they can raise awareness amongst Fenland land owners of the urgent need to preserve as much Black Oak.
I was pleased to find out more from master craftsman Hamish Low, Peter, Clare, John and Trish Shropshire, Ann King, Canon Jim Garrard and archaeologist Dr Pryor.
The tabletop is currently on display in Ely Cathedral and for more information visit https://www.thefenlandblackoakproject.co.uk
