(National tree week runs until 3rd December)
A couple of months ago the illegal felling of a lone tree on Hadrian’s Wall caused shock and outrage. Those who knew it, grieved for its loss. Why did it have such an impact? Well, it was the only tree for miles around. It had won Tree of the Year 2016 in the annual contest run by The Woodland Trust. It was a land-mark, an iconic thing of beauty to photogra-phers, artists, and walkers. It had featured in a Hollywood movie (Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves) and to those who visited, it was like an old friend. It was the site for proposals, scattering of ashes, reunions, and many pho-tos. And it was felled in an act of mindless vandalism. I knew it well. I had visited many times over my lifetime and have memories of people no longer with us.
Nearer to home, at the end of last month the sound of chainsaws filled the air in Catlin Crescent, Shepperton. Most residents were at work, but a few of us were there. An old wil-low which had stood majestically for decades was being taken down. With shock we ap-proached the tree surgeons who told us that a further 6 large mature trees on our crescent were earmarked for felling. At that point we told the contractors to stop. Why did no one know? Why were these trees all condemned? The willow was apparently rotten. The Ash trees have Die Back. The felling of so many large mature trees all at once would change the nature of our environment. It is affecting the wellbeing of residents. We were in shock. This tale has not reached a conclusion yet.
What is clear is the emotional link we have with trees. These giants are sentinels. They are pieces of our history and heritage. Walking in an ancient forest you can but wonder who has walked in your footsteps and looked upon these trees. In Wraysbury, the Ankerwyke Yew is estimated to be at least 1400 years old. It is speculated that it was under this tree that Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn.
National Tree Week marks the start of the winter tree planting season. It gets people out planting trees around the country and reminds us how fundamental trees are to our lives and our well-being. Trees are heroes of nature. They sustain wildlife, create oxygen, purify our air, and make us feel good. Children play in them and under them. They give shelter and shade. Now more than ever we need to be caring and protecting our trees. Never take them for granted. Look around you and you will see how many are not looking their best due to diseases or neglect. Councils and land-owners need to do their bit to care for what we have. But we can all do our bit by planting trees for the future. See p6 and get a tree planted this autumn.