TRIO OF MAJESTIC TREES OUTSIDE OLD CLEE CHURCH MAY BE LOPPED TO PACIFY NEIGHBOUR

A date with the tree surgeon's chainsaw could beckon soon for three superb trees - two sycamores and a lime - in the churchyard at Old Clee. It has emerged that the neighbouring householder wants them lopped, claiming they reduce light to her property and that birds perching on the branches deposit "smelly" droppings. Her request is currently under review by North East Lincolnshire Council's trees officer, Paul Chaplin.

The Grimsby News says: These trees are so magnificent that it would surely be a shame to see them disfigured - especially since they sit in the grounds of Old Clee Church - an architectural gem and the oldest building in North East Lincolnshire. What is more they provide habitat for songbirds, beneficial insects, squirrels and other wildlife.  A few bird droppings and marginal loss of light are a small price to pay for the privilege of living next door to such majestic and friendly trees. Instead of applying for them to be lopped, the householder would be better advised to request that the unsightly  street sign is removed from outside the front of her property.