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Suffolk's 'oldest tree' blown over after Storm Babet hits county

Nedging Hall Estate A fallen oak treeNedging Hall Estate
A large part of the oak tree is being left to nature, to create a habitat for beetles and bugs

A tree, thought to be 1,000 years old, was blown over during recent storms.

The historic oak grew in the grounds of Nedging Hall and the estate believed it was the oldest tree in Suffolk.

The team plan to turn part of the tree into furniture, while the main trunk will be left as a habitat for wildlife.

Charlie Buckle, managing director of the estate near Hadleigh, said: "It is very sad to see the end of such a magnificent tree."

Nedging Hall Estate The oak tree before it fell at Nedging HallNedging Hall Estate
The oak tree, pictured on the right, inspired one of the hall's early logos

Storm Babet and Storm Ciarán, which devastated parts of the county with high winds and flooding, took their toll on the old tree.

A statement from Nedging Hall read: "There are some incredible trees across the 5,000-acre Nedging Hall Estate, but this ancient oak was the most significant."

With a focus on sustainability, the estate team looked at how it could best use the oak, and furniture will be made for its three pubs: The Lindsey Rose, The Bildeston Crown and The Brewery Tap.

"It will be a tribute to bring it back to life as characterful furniture for our restaurants," said Mr Buckle.

The team has also planted another oak on the grounds.

"[It] will hopefully have its own story to tell in 1,000 years," he added.

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