Billingshurst: Calls for support as campaign to stop tree chop continues

Campaigners are calling for more support as a battle to save two centuries old Oak trees in Billingshurst continues.

Residents launched a movement to save the 200-year-old trees - nicknamed 'Billi Oaks' - after discovering they were at risk of being chopped down over a subsidence claim.

Since, a petition's reached over 4000 signatures, gaining support from locals and enabling plans to cut the trees to be pushed aside while a bat survey takes place.

But the campaign's also faced resistance, with their banners chopped, and a special postbox and bench placed beneath them stolen.

"They're the only trees of that age and the housing estate and so it's a really nice spot," said lead campaigner Gabbi Barrett.

"It's a shame when that's taken away."

She added that it's important to keep raising awareness about the situation so authorities know they aren't "giving up".

"It's so important to try and stress that this isn't about any individuals.

"This is really such a community driven thing - it has to be, it's the only way it'll work."

You can sign the petition here.