New Forest: Centuries-old King Oak saved from being felled

Expert advice provided by the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) has resulted in a local landowner retaining the 600-year-old King Oak.

The tree, part of a private estate at Moyles Court, near Ringwood, predates Oliver Cromwell, Henry VIII, and William Shakespeare.

But it was declared dead earlier this year, having shown signs of decay for at least a century.

The 600-year-old King Oak in the New Forest has been spared the axe, despite being declared dead (Image: NPA)

James Palmer, tree officer at the NPA said: "The oak needed further pruning to safely retain what we see today.

"While keeping the deadwood in place is favourable, we had to consider any potential damage or injury that could be caused by falling branches.  

"‘We worked with the tree's owner, encouraging them to retain the ancient oak, and provided advice for other options rather than to just fell the tree to ground level, as was initially proposed."

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Ancient trees are an important part of a forest’s ecosystem, providing vital habitats for birds, bats, insects, and lichens.

They are also culturally important, adding to the character of an area and often providing historical landmarks.

James Palmer is a tree expert employed by the New Forest National Park Authority (Image: NPA)

Work to retain what remains of the King Oak was carried out earlier this month using specialist equipment and a crane. 

The stem and branches were pruned by Treemenders, with cuts made to replicate storm damage. The more natural finish is better for wildlife, including creatures that need niche habitats to survive.

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James said: "The New Forest has one of the highest concentrations of ancient trees in western Europe.

"Our role at the NPA is to protect the special and important trees that contribute to the character of the national park.

"We've been pleased to help retain a portion of the King Oak, which will remain an important cultural landmark and help support hundreds of other plant and animal species for many years to come.

"It’s a great example of the importance of managing ancient and veteran trees and collaborating with different people to protect them for future generations.

"We're now working with Forest partners and the local community to help retain the nearby Queen Oak, which is on the opposite side of the road.

"She's older than the King and without intervention is at risk of collapse due to internal decay."

Other ancient trees in the Forest include the 500-year-old Knightwood Oak, just off the A35 near Lyndhurst.