ENGLISH Heritage has applied to West Devon Borough Council to fell seven trees in the grounds of Okehampton Castle.

The government heritage organisation said the trees, which have Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) on them, should be felled before becoming a hazard. They include four in the car park.

‘We have applied to fell a number of trees as part of our on-going work to protect and restore the ancient woodland around Okehampton Castle,’ said Chris Bally, landscape manager for English Heritage.

‘Our annual survey found that the trees, positioned by the edge of the woodland, have poor form with no long term future and should be removed before they become a hazard.

‘The whole woodland is protected under an area tree preservation order and there is no intention to clear any established woodland.’