Villagers cut off as felled tree blocks only road

Residents of a Cornish village have been cut off after a massive tree that came down in strong winds blocked the only road in and out.

The tree, thought to be about 100 years old, came down in 80mph (128km/h) winds at Trenarren near St Austell on Sunday.

It has left the community of about 18 people with no internet and phone calls.

They are relying on people with vehicles from the other side of the tree and those from nearby communities for supplies.

More than 1,000 properties in Devon and Cornwall still have no electricity after several days of severe weather.

Darren and Jackie Poulter, long-time residents, said no-one in the village heard the tree fall.

"Luckily, we still have electricity, but if it goes, we'll be in trouble," said Mrs Poulter.

"We've been without power for three or four days before, so we make sure we have candles and tree lights."

The villagers have pulled together to support each other.

"If somebody needs something, I've got a vehicle on the other side of the tree to get to the shops," Mr Poulter said.

George Taylor, an 82-year-old resident, said: "It's a 100-year-old tree, and it's going to take a while to fix.

"Everyone helps everyone here and we've been checking on each other, making sure everyone is okay."

The villagers are awaiting assistance from the authorities.

Mrs Poulter said: "It's down as an emergency because of the elderly residents.

"A team is meant to be coming today, but it could be a few days."

Despite the disruption, the community spirit remains strong.

"We're all pulling together," she said.

"If you don't have to go to work, it's fine, but for those who do, it's a challenge."

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