GALES have felled about a dozen trees in the grounds of Castle Howard, including a 150-year-old yew that has left a large crater.
Head gardener Brian Deighton said that the 30ft yew tree, which stood in a row between the Walled Garden and the stately home, was brought down by strong winds during the weekend.
"The severe weather has brought down about a dozen trees in the grounds and on the avenue, and a lot more across the entire estate," said Mr Deighton. "This tree has left a gaping hole in the ground so large that I can stand up in it - and I'm 5ft 11in."
The pit will be filled in so it is not a hazard to visitors. The tree will be cut up and sent to the estate's saw mill to be made into logs, but first Mr Deighton has had to call out for a bigger chainsaw. Strong winds have blown some slates off the roof of the house's dome, but otherwise it remains unscathed.
Updated: 10:53 Thursday, January 13, 2005
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