Measures in place to protect historic oak tree near Grantham

Measures have been put in place to protect an oak tree in Lincolnshire thought to date back to the time of Sir Isaac Newton, who lived nearby.

South Kesteven District Council said the tree in Manthorpe, near Grantham, had suffered significant soil compaction, with ropes being hung from its branches for children to play.

The authority said it had installed new wooden fencing to limit public access as a way of protecting the tree and to keep the surrounding area safe for the public.

A spokesperson said the “minimal intervention” would deliver the maximum benefits for wildlife, and help to conserve the oak for future generations.

Cabinet member for environment, councillor Rhys Baker, said: “This is one of the area’s most notable trees and is recorded on the Woodland Trust’s Ancient Tree Inventory.”

He added: “The restriction of access around the tree will also improve the rooting environment and help conserve this historic feature.”