Winds claim oldest oak tree

Wales' oldest oak tree - growing in Wrexham since 802 - has been felled in the strong winds.

The 1,200 year old Pontfadog Oak near Chirk is probably one of the oldest oak trees in Northern Europe. 

The Welsh Prince Owain Gwynedd rallied his troops under the tree in 1157, before taking on, and going on to defeat the English King Henry ll at the battle of Crogen nearby. 

Angharad Evans of the Woodland Trust - which is calling for more protection for ancient trees - said: 

"This venerable old tree has had a lot to cope with over the past few weeks, with heavy snow, a prolonged cold snap and finally last night's high winds." 

Writing on Facebook, the owner of the tree Diane Coakley-Williams said: "I'm afraid the tree is no more. Lots of people had nice days out. But no one wanted to help preserve it."