A sculptor is crafting a stainless steel tree which will carry thousands of messages from patients and family members at a Norfolk hospital.

Eastern Daily Press: Artist Mark Reed in his studio at Ashill Farm, ThefordArtist Mark Reed in his studio at Ashill Farm, Theford (Image: Brittany Woodman/ Archant)

The six-metre (20ft) artwork, made by sculptor Mark Reed, will go on display at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn after it has been completed.

Eastern Daily Press: Artist Mark Reed new tree sculpture which is being made for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Kings Lynn. The tree features two spots on the bottom where you can sit and look up.Artist Mark Reed new tree sculpture which is being made for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Kings Lynn. The tree features two spots on the bottom where you can sit and look up. (Image: Brittany Woodman/ Archant)

People will be able to buy one of its 3,000 leaves to have their own personal message engraved on it.

Eastern Daily Press: People will be able to buy a leaf to have their own message engraved on itPeople will be able to buy a leaf to have their own message engraved on it (Image: Brittany Woodman/ Archant)

Mr Reed made the fish wave sculpture which formed part of the Dippy on Tour exhibition at Norwich Cathedral and also makes smaller trees for bird feeders and garden ornaments.

Based at Ashill, near Thetford, he admits he has a slight problem when it comes to transporting the work to the hospital when it is completed in a few weeks' time.

Eastern Daily Press: Artist Mark Reed welding his new tree sculpture which is being made for The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Kings Lynn.Artist Mark Reed welding his new tree sculpture which is being made for The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Kings Lynn. (Image: Brittany Woodman/ Archant)

He hopes to find a sympathetic haulier, a farmer with a large trailer or even a helicopter owner to deliver it.

Eastern Daily Press: Mark Reed's wave sculpture Your Waves Go Over M' in the Hostry at Norwich Cathedral.Mark Reed's wave sculpture Your Waves Go Over M' in the Hostry at Norwich Cathedral. (Image: Norwich Cathedral)