Shock as oak tree is felled at Ludlow beauty spot - with video

One of two young oaks at Whitcliffe Common, which overlooks Ludlow, has been removed, shocking objectors who have called it an "act of environmental vandalism".

Shropshire Wildlife Trust (SWT), which looks after the site with local group Friends of Whitcliffe Common, decided in December to go with a compromise of cutting down just one tree – but as recently as the end of last week talks were ongoing.

Colin Preston, SWT's chief executive, said he was aware the idea of felling a tree to reopen the view over Ludlow had caused controversy.

But he said: "While conserving wildlife is our main aim, we recognise our nature reserves are important to people walking the dog or just enjoying the views, so we strike a balance in their management."

Among those who had objected were Ludlow Town Council and, more recently, zoologist and TV presenter Dr George McGavin, maker of BBC4 documentary Oak Tree: Nature's Greatest Survivor.

A statement issued by the trustees of Friends of Whitcliffe Common said: "The trustees, for both Friends of Whitcliffe Common and Shropshire Wildlife Trust are very aware that taking down an immature, healthy oak tree is an emotive issue. They respect all the differing views, realise the decision will not please everyone and thank those giving support."

However, Gareth Thomas, a member of both the Friends' group and Shropshire Wildlife Trust, said he would resign his membership of both as a result.

He said: "I feel this happened very suddenly, considering I've had good communication with SWT on this with a view to further consultation – now all of that has gone out of the window."

Councillor Andy Boddington said: "This has been a difficult debate. I have said before that there should have been more consultation from day one.

"SWT has not presented a coherent case for management of Whitcliffe Common, it has referred to an unpublished management plan that dates back nearly 20 years.

"The way we manage the environment has changed since then and the respect that all of us have for trees has grown."