Devoted grandson in campaign bid to save special tree in memory of his grandfather

A devoted Clowne grandson has won the support of 450 people to save a tree planted in memory of his grandfather.
Residents are angry that the council want to remove memorial trees at Clowne Cemetery, Ross Walker is pictured centre with the tree dedicated to his Grandfather with his Mother Mary Walker and Uncle Keith TaylorResidents are angry that the council want to remove memorial trees at Clowne Cemetery, Ross Walker is pictured centre with the tree dedicated to his Grandfather with his Mother Mary Walker and Uncle Keith Taylor
Residents are angry that the council want to remove memorial trees at Clowne Cemetery, Ross Walker is pictured centre with the tree dedicated to his Grandfather with his Mother Mary Walker and Uncle Keith Taylor

The maple tree, in Clowne cemetery, is due to be cut down by Clowne Parish Council, which says 10 trees in the cemetery are health and safety risks, because of their proximity to a nearby property.

However, campaigner Ross Walker says he has not seen any evidence the trees are causing damage, or are a health and safety risk.

He said: “I know I am biased, but I am very emotional about this.

“I just can’t see why they are chopping them down.

People are really upset about it. It is absolutely stunningly beautiful up there.”

“I am trying to be as straight as I can with them, but the parish council are just not answering to anybody, giving excuses and answering questions with questions.”

Ross says he has put in three Freedom of Information requests and attended council meetings, only to be informed the decision has been made and will go ahead.

He said: “If I see proof that the tree is causing damage to someone’s property then I will chop it down myself.”

Brian Watson, of the Clowne Cemetery Burial Committee, confirmed the committee was currently waiting for a price for the work from the contractor and that a final decision would be made at a meeting planned for January 18, to which all interested parties would be invited.

Councillor Allan Bailey, vice-chairman of the Clowne and Barlborough Burial Board, said: “The roots are causing damage to the man’s property.

“We are very sympathetic for both sides.

“Nobody on the board wants to cut trees down for the sake of it.”

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