The Shoe Tree

A plaque by this tree reads:

In 1627, Sheriff Babington of Heaton threw his shoes up into the Sycamore to celebrate the birth of his grandson.

Since then residents of Heaton have continued this tradition by throwing their shoes up into the tree, whenever they celebrate a special occasion.

I made my own contribution to this tradition when I passed my driving test and threw the very tatty trainers that I had worn for the test into the branches.

I am told that the strange blue stuff in the background of this shot is called 'sky' ! Who knew it could be that colour ?