St Marys graveyard trees reduced to stumps

Feb 9 2011 by Clare Walsh, Bromborough and Bebington News

FURIOUS Eastham village residents were shocked when a number of trees from St Mary’s graveyard were “hacked down” – reducing them to little more than stumps.

St Mary’s vicar, Beth Glover, said the 25ft holly and yew trees around the yard were ‘attacked with chainsaws’ by council contractors.

Eastham Conservation Society and the church had expressed concern about the size of the trees which led to a council consultation.

Rev Glover and the conservation society expected the trees to only be pruned with a few branches removed.

However, shortly after the work began, Reverend Glover said ‘all hell broke loose’ as the villagers realised the extent to which the trees had been cut back.

She told Wirral News: “They have absolutely desecrated the place. The trees look dreadful and wildlife and habitats have been destroyed. It looks like the sunken village.”

Jim Lester, Wirral Council’s head of cultural services, said: “The work was carried out at the request of, and in consultation with the residents’ group, and was intended to help restore views of the church.

“We appreciate why there are some concerns over the extent of the work and are sorry for any upset caused, but the trees will grow back and recover.”