Kineton conker tree conks out after decades of joy
AN old horse chestnut tree in Kineton which was a favourite with children at conker time has been cut down in the interests of public safety.
The landmark tree on Southam Road had been monitored by Warwickshire County Council’s forestry team who had found that its health had declined and that it had to go.
The decision was made also because of the tree’s close proximity to footpaths, a busy road and nearby buildings.
Kineton’s county and district councillor Chris Mills said it was difficult to know how old the tree was and that a ring count would probably be the only way of knowing and in fact the the tree might not actually be as old as it appeared.
“The forestry team will look at other locations within Kineton to locate a replacement and any suggestions would be welcomed,” Cllr Mills said.
The landmark tree was fondly remembered on social media with some people saying they were sorry to see it go.
Cllr Mills added: “I’m sure that over the years many young people would have collected conkers from this horse chestnut and it will be very sad to see it felled. Nevertheless, I believe the correct course of action has been taken as the first rule of thumb for the council is safety of the public.”
