Veteran oak recognised for its importance to wildlife

South Hams District Council has worked with the Woodland Trust to have the tree, which stands on Council-owned land, recorded on the Trust’s Ancient Tree Inventory. An information board has also been installed nearby to explain its significance to visitors.

Located a short walk from the Longmarsh car park, the oak provides a habitat for a wide range of local wildlife and is now being highlighted as an important part of the area's natural heritage.

The recognition was marked by an event attended by Year 6 pupils from Berry Pomeroy Parochial Church of England School, councillors from South Hams District Council, Berry Pomeroy Parish Council and Totnes Town Council.

The pupils planted trees near the veteran oak as part of the occasion, helping to encourage the next generation to value and protect the natural environment.

Adam, from the school's Oak class, said: "I've learnt that the tree has seen a lot, and a lot has happened to it. I've learnt how it benefits both us and nature. Tree planting is fun and essential. We're doing what we can to help our world. People are cutting them down and we have to help the trees to survive."

His classmate, Phoebe, added: "We came here to plant some trees and see an information board be revealed about the tree. It's reversing deforestation, because if every time you cut down a tree you plant a new one then the world would be a much better place."

The children also heard from the Woodland Trust and Council staff about the importance of protecting veteran trees and supporting biodiversity.

Annette Smith, Head of School at Berry Pomeroy Parochial Church of England School, said: “We were invited by South Hams District Council to celebrate the veteran tree. It was a really exciting opportunity for the Oak class at our school. All of our classes are named after trees: Acorns, Seedlings, Saplings and Oak. This was a perfect celebration of all their years of primary school which mimic the age of the tree. We wanted the children to see firsthand how impressive and important the tree is.”

Cllr John McKay, South Hams District Council's Lead Executive Member for Climate Change and Biodiversity, said the event reflected the authority's commitment to tackling climate change and protecting nature.

“We have made no secret of the fact that we have declared a climate emergency, and that’s why events like these are really important.

“We’ve stood up for nature and the need to combat climate change in ways that include the planting of 25,000 trees at Hope Wood, or even our switch to more electric vehicles for our fleet. This event recognises this magnificent oak. It shows that we’re respecting its importance, and we hope the day had a lasting impression on the pupils who attended and they will pursue an interest in the natural world.”

Rosie Walker, Regional External Affairs Officer at the Woodland Trust, said: “It’s really important that trees such as the magnificent oak at Longmarsh are recognised and protected. To work alongside South Hams District Council at the event and to officially record the tree on our Ancient Tree Inventory is really pleasing.”

Cllr Jacqi Hodgson, Chair of South Hams District Council, formally unveiled the information board alongside those attending. She said: “This oak tree at Longmarsh has stood proudly for many decades, providing a home for wildlife, enriching our environment, and reminding us of the enduring value of the natural world.

“As a Council, we have declared a Climate Emergency. Recognising and protecting this tree is just one example of the work being undertaken to combat climate change and support biodiversity across the South Hams.

“It was pleasing to see pupils from Berry Pomeroy Parochial Church of England School attend the event. We hope they found the occasion educational, interesting and inspiring.”