Man fined after removing protected tree

A man had to pay more than £5,600 after he admitted allowing a protected tree in his garden to be felled.

Justin Claybourne pleaded guilty to two charges of carrying out work without permission on a tree covered by a preservation order.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council said that Claybourne initially allowed the tree to be cut back and then removed it.

The council added that an investigation found that "the tree appeared to be in good health prior to the work taking place".

Claybourne, of Station Road in Foggathorpe, appeared before Beverley Magistrates' Court on 8 January and was ordered to pay a total of £5,643.82, comprising of a £3,600 fine, £603.82 costs and a victim surcharge of £1,440.

Councillor Gary McMaster said: "It is important to check with the council whether the tree is protected before causing any work to be undertaken to trees.

"The council takes protection of trees seriously and takes robust action where illegal behaviour occurs."

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