Rumours of woodland felling sparks rapid protection move

Trees which make up part of an ancient woodland have been placed under special protection after council officers heard rumours they could be felled.

- by Marie Sharp

The collection of trees at Thurston, Innerwick, in East Lothian, have formally been granted a formal protection order which means they cannot be pruned or chopped down without prior consent from the local authority.

Failure to follow the rules can lead to hefty fines and additional legal action.

A report to council-lors confirming the Tree Protection Order (TPO) said it was applied for after concerns about the future of the woodland, which lies south of the listed East Lodge and cemetery.