An ancient oak tree in Knaresborough Forest falls tragically

It was one of the last veteran trees in the ancient royal forest of Knaresborough.

Pictures show it rotting from the inside out, falling victim to the elements.

The oak is included in the Ancient Tree Inventory compiled by the Woodland Trust.

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A keen tree lover paid a touching tribute to the ancient oak tree by posting on social media under the pseudonym ‘The Sheriff of Nottingham’.

He said: “We say thank you and say goodbye to an old oak tree that recently fell.”

“One of the last veteran trees in the Royal Forest of Knaresborough, Yorkshire, fell to the ground last week.

“The oak tree in the field on Hall Lane at Blubberhouses is believed to be around 400 years old, meaning it was fully grown when the royal hunting forest at Knaresborough was cut up and sold in 1770.

“Hollowed and rotting at the base, it is believed to have fallen victim to recent dry weather.

“The tree is included in the Ancient Tree Inventory maintained by the Woodland Trust and is listed as having a trunk circumference of 5.67m.

“May she rest in peace.”

Knaresborough Forest existed before records began and first came under royal rule after the Norman invasion in 1066.

The land became known as the Forest of Knaresborough and contained a variety of parks and forest reserves.

Over the centuries it grew into a royal attraction until King John took over the castle and grounds in 1205.

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He fortified the castle to defend himself against the lords of the north who were causing him trouble.

Edward I and Edward II also spent a lot of money on strengthening the fortress.

In 1333 Edward III donated the land and castle of his wife, Queen Philippa.