A CAMPAIGN has begun to save 18 mature oak trees earmarked for the chop.

The trees, on the northern meadow of Thundersley Great Common, each more than 100 years old, are due to be felled to preserve an area of heathland.

Six trees have already been chopped down.

Despite the conservationist stance, residents believe the removal of trees to be senseless.

Stan Kogel, 82, of Maplin Close, Thundersley, said: “Some of these trees are 150-years old – it’s not like you can just plant a new one in their place.

“Once they’re gone, they’re gone forever. It’s a beautiful area we are very lucky to still have.

“We should do everything we can to protect it.”

Government conservationists Natural England, who oversee the common in partnership with Castle Point Council, claim the shade cast by the trees is preventing the growth of rare grasses and heathers, such as purple flowered milkwort and yellow cow wheat.

Andrew Smith, a spokesman for Natural England, said: “There are now more than 100 trees which are rapidly shading out the remaining patches of heathland vegetation.

“If these are all left to mature, a large part of the area will soon become dense woodland.”

Some residents believe Natural England should have held a consultation.

Barbara Dick, 74, of Sandown Road, Thundersley, said: “They should come down and talk to the people who use this beautiful area before taking these decisions.”

Castle Point MP Bob Spink is backing the residents, and has already issued people living nearby with Save Our Trees posters to put in their windows.

Dr Spink said: “Trees generally, and these oaks in particular, are important to our landscape and play an essential environmental role, combating pollution and climate change, and in providing habitat and food for animals and birds.”

Carol Leach, a spokeswoman for Castle Point Council, said letters were sent to 450 residents last autumn explaining the reasons for the tree felling. She said: “We have kept residents informed and we will continue to inform them of any future developments.”

Mrs Leach said nine more trees are due to be felled this autumn, while the final nine will be chopped down next year.