ONGOING damage to trees by squirrels in Simmons Park has led the town council to consider carrying out an ecological survey.

Councillors discussed the issue of squirrel control at the parks committee meeting last week. Chairman Cllr David Weekes visited the park with groundsman David Whitfield.

Cllr Weekes said damage to trees and branches over paths and thoroughfares through the park had been 'pretty bad'.

'Chances are that eventually branches will fall from the trees, potentially on to people using the park. This could leave us open to an insurance claim or legal action. Something needs to be done soon rather than letting it run on and on,' he said.

The council is to contact West Devon Borough Council and independent ecological bodies to ascertain the cost of a survey.