Tree poisoner fined (From Echo)

Tree poisoner fined

4:11pm Wednesday 18th June 2008 in Rayleigh / Rochford

A MAN who damaged a 150-year-old tree has been prosecuted by a council.

Niall Hossack of 35 Woodpond Avenue, Hockley was fined £1,350 at Southend Magistrates, Court for willfully causing damage by applying herbicide to the protected oak tree, situated in his front garden.

Rochford District Council said the offence was aggravated by the fact that the defendant continually denied causing the damage to the tree and also because he applied the herbicide on more than one occasion.

Magistrates, sitting on May 19, also ordered £1,500 costs to be paid. Hossack was ordered to pay the fine and costs within 14 days.

Michael Starke, councillor responsible for the environment, said: "Rochford District Council will unfailingly carry out its duty to protect the environment for the benefit of residents. Trees are an important part of the ecological landscape and the ouncil will not neglect its responsibility to preserve this valuable natural asset."