TREE specialists say they have been saddened and sickened by the recent wanton vandalism of ancient trees on private land in one area of the Yorkshire Dales.

These trees are beautiful and have been there for many decades

Paul Casey - Harrogate Borough Council

Jacob Smith Park, near Knaresborough, is to be dedicated to the people of the Harrogate district, yet youngsters have put themselves at great risk by lopping off thick branches to build themselves tree houses in veteran trees which has resulted in serious damage to the trees.

As Trustees of the park work on finalising the bequest under the terms of the will of Miss Winifred Jacob Smith, they had commissioned Harrogate Borough Council's Arboricultural Team to survey over 250 trees. A specialist contractor was appointed by the council to undertake work which would involve the felling of a small number of dangerous trees as well as the removal of deadwood and low hanging branches from other trees in preparation for the land to be handed over for public use.

Paul Casey, Arboricultural Manager for the council has issued a stark warning to parents. "Climbing trees is, of course, something that children do, but it is dangerous. What is even more dangerous is letting them loose with hammers, nails and saws. Falling out of a tree may break a limb, falling out on top of a six inch nail or worse a sharp saw could result in serious injury or even death.

"The very wet weather we have been experiencing lately has also dislodged a mature Oak tree which was on top of a relatively steep embankment with a six foot drop on one side. This tree has fallen over and I shudder to think what would have happened if one of these young people had been nearby at the time.

"These trees are beautiful and have been there for many decades. All our safety preparation work is needed to turn what is private land into public space. We take our responsibility very seriously and I must urge all families with children who live nearby to watch where they are playing. They made an illegal entry onto the land and certainly put themselves at risk."

As part of the survey work, veteran Oak trees have been identified and are to be retained in their current and natural forms. To ensure their long-term protected future, the council plans to install wooden fencing around their bases. Notices will be posted to tell visitors of their importance in the local landscape and how the trees are to be managed and cared for.