Trees damaged as high winds batter Sherwood Forest

Notts County Council, which manages the reserve, says high winds have damaged some of the silver birch trees.

Around six large birch trees have fallen in recent days and had to be removed.

There has, however, been no reported damage to the ancient oak trees which are over 300 years old.

Rangers have been extra busy this week removing dangerous branches from trees and placing warning signs.

Sherwood Forest senior ranger Paul Cook urged people to be extra cautious when walking around the forest.

“We have not had as much damage as we did this time last year when we were clearing up after the big snow freeze which came quite early when most trees still had their leaves on. The heavy snow and high winds then caused more damage, and clearing up lasted well into the spring,” he said.

“This time there is less damage as the trees don’t have leaves on so they can cope more with the storms. However, with the winds still quite high, our message to all visitors is to take care when they visit the forest.”

To report a fallen tree please call the county council’s Customer Service Centre on 08449 808080.