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More than 300 trees cleared from storm-hit park

National Trust South West Three park rangers wearing black trousers, red jumpers and red hard hats. They are standing next to a yellow tractor being used to move chopped trees. The rangers are standing in the middle of a forest, surrounded by fallen trees, foliage and autumnal leaves on the ground. Behind them there is a stone bridge reaching over a flowing river. National Trust South West
Rangers say they have ensured the majority of the woodland and pathways are now safe for the public

Rangers have cleared more than 300 fallen trees from a national park after a storm battered the woodland.

Exmoor National Park began clearing the trees in mid December after footpaths in the 621 mile (1,000km) network were deemed unsafe following Storm Darragh.

Most major routes have now reopened but some sections are still impassable, and will need to be addressed in phase two of the clearing operation.

National Trust South West (NTSW) said many of the felled trees would be left as 'deadwood' to provide a source of food and shelter for wildlife.

A large tree that has toppled over during the storms. It is lying at a 45 degree angle and beneath it are crushed branches and foliage on the ground. In the background there are other trees still standing but blowing in the wind.
Many fallen trees will now be used as homes for a wide range of wildlife

Exmoor National Park said rangers had been tackling the west region of the woodland, but there was still plenty to be done.

"Many paths in wooded areas remain blocked by fallen trees and may have trees still in a dangerous condition," said Sue Applegate, senior public rights of way and access officer.

"Most of the major routes are now open but we're advising any users to still take extra care, especially in wooded sections and in windy weather.

"While we have been able to clear main obstacles, there are still issues with weakened trees, hanging branches, and damaged surfaces where root plates have torn up."

Ms Applegate explained these would be addressed in phase two of the work once "the most urgent things" were tackled.

Shaun Davey A view upwards through the tree canopy in Exmoor National Park. It shows the branches reaching towards the light and the bright green leaves clustered close together.Shaun Davey
NTSW says a "newly opened up canopy" will allow more light onto the forest floor, encouraging new tree growth and wildflowers

Popular walks along Dunkery Beacon, Tarr Steps, Valley of Rocks, Wimbleball and Haddon Hill and Porlock Marsh have reopened.

The South West Coast Path on Exmoor is open except between Culbone and Foreland Point, where "damage is extensive and work is continuing".

Wooded sections of the Coleridge Way and Two Moors Way are still impassable.

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