Tree-felling OAP could face court (From Free Press Series)

Tree-felling OAP could face court

A CHAINSAW wielding pensioner who decided to take matters into his own hands and hack down giant trees in Monmouth's Nelson Garden could end up in court.

Garden volunteer Jack Roocroft, 74, chopped down six 80ft evergreens after becoming fed up with endless debate on the best way to restore the historic garden where Nelson sipped coffee with his mistress Lady Hamilton.

The action caused outrage and now the council's countryside service say they are taking appropriate legal action over the matter.

But a defiant Mr Roocroft told the Free Press this week he remains untroubled by the legal threat.

He said: "I am quite happy. My understanding of the law is they can't, well they could but they will not succeed."

Mr Roocroft insists he has done nothing wrong and called for an oak tree to be planted in the garden to commemorate Nelson's victory at Trafalgar, celebrated next year.

The garden is situated behind Lloyds TSB bank in Monnow Street and is cared for by the Nelson Garden Committee.

Mr Roocroft added: "I think they could do a lot better if they get on and get planting ready for the celebrations next year. They are not doing anything worthwhile, they are just spending ratepayer's money on security fencing and not on commemorating Nelson.

"There are some sad people in Monmouth, they do not want to do anything themselves and I do not want to wait around.

"They can fine me all they want. I have no money, only a pension, and they are not going to take a great deal out of that."

George Weston, a tree officer with Monmouthshire council's countryside service, confirmed a legal investigation was underway.

Each of the garden trustees has received a cautionary letter and they will be interviewed over the incident.

Mr Weston said: "Our solicitor is proceeding with the various legal investigations at the moment and we are interviewing all the relevant people involved.

"We are inviting everybody who has received a letter to come in for an interview and we are proceeding with the interviews at present. Once all the interviews are in and examined, it will be decided who will be proceeded against."

Mr Weston confirmed the council had not yet interviewed Mr Roocroft, but they planned to shortly.