08/07/10…..Thame landmark tree felled

THE landmark willow tree in Thame’s Memorial Gardens was felled yesterday after it was found to be diseased and dangerous.

Town Clerk, Helen Stewart, said: “This is a very sad day for Thame and I know that many people will be unhappy about such a significant tree coming down.

“The willow was a well-known focal point in the town but very unfortunately this action has been necessary for safety reasons. We have taken the advice of the Forestry and Countryside Manager at South Oxfordshire District Council, following a site visit.”

The tree will be replaced today with a mature willow with a girth of at least 14-16cm and a height of between 4.2 and 4.8m, and planted as near to the original site as possible.