THE condition of trees in Okehampton's Simmons Park has sparked concern over safety for people living in the area.

An old oak tree has already damaged a garden and other trees when its branches fell in strong winds.

The tree dropped several large branches when high winds hit the park a couple of years ago.

Keith Yapp, whose garden was affected by the falling tree limbs, said: 'We replaced our damaged saplings, shrubs and part of our perimeter fence at our own expense.

'About a year later this tree again shed a branch, this time into the park itself, damaging an adjacent beech tree which now also looks a bit of a mess.'

Mr Yapp said he was concerned what the next branch to fall would hit.

'Despite the council having been advised to either fell this tree completely or at least pollard it to a much reduced height, nothing has been done and it remains with a very unbalanced crown of large branches,' said Mr Yapp.

'It's pointless me calling the town hall every time we have a strong breeze, but this tree is their responsibility and we'll soon be heading into autumn.

'Every strong wind now makes me wonder if this tree will weather it and yet no one seems in any hurry to remedy this situation.

Okehampton town councillor Kay Bickley said the council took the safety of people and their property very seriously.

She said: 'We have had all of the trees reviewed at great expense and those that needed pruning or crowning have been.

'We've had a qualified tree surgeon look at the trees and also the benefit of the park keeper, who also keeps an eye on the trees.

'The town council takes liability issues very seriously and we do have things looked at.

'We have seen more than one report from the tree surgeon and we spend the money we have wisely on taking the appropriate action.

'When we've had letters, we've acted accordingly.'