PHANTOM woodsman mysteriously cutting down trees at a Suffolk beauty spot has today become Needham Market's most wanted man.Countryside staff who care for the town's lake and nature reserve have been left baffled by a tree-feller who appears to be anonymously helping them.
PHANTOM woodsman mysteriously cutting down trees at a Suffolk beauty spot has today become Needham Market's most wanted man.
Countryside staff who care for the town's lake and nature reserve have been left baffled by a tree-feller who appears to be anonymously helping them.
The woodsman, nicknamed Captain Coppice, has struck twice within a month - each time only chopping down trees which need to be felled and leaving the branches in a tidy pile.
Dave Hughes, Mid Suffolk district council's countryside officer said: "I've been working in countryside areas for twenty years and have never come across anything like this before.
"Whoever is felling the trees obviously knows what they are doing and they are doing a very tidy job.
"They are being very selective, only doing work which needs to be done, but I cannot condone this independent activity and would like to speak to the person, or persons involved.
"I want to tell them we really appreciate what they are doing but we need to work together so their energy and enthusiasm is channelled into the right area. We'd love them to work with us.
"We are really pleased someone is showing an interest and wants to get out and do the work but our worry is they might go somewhere else less appropriate next.
"If the person felling the trees could contact me I'll be able to meet them and agree how we can work together.
"If not, then I will have to take action to ensure the illegal felling is stopped."
A more malicious version of the mystery is currently going on in Poole, Dorset.
Twelve police officers are hunting an individual nicknamed the Phantom Tree Chopper of Poole Harbour, who is sawing down trees in people's garden's under the cover of darkness.
Staff are desperately trying to improve the lake area and a £30,000 project to stabilise the shoreline of a former gravel pit at the lake - which was being eroded by waves - is now drawing to a close.
The Gipping Valley Angling Club will shortly be installing new platforms and plants and the council is hoping to introduce new play equipment, plants and play equipment.
Are you the mystery woodsman? Or do you know who it is? Contact The Evening Star newsdesk on 01473 324789.
WEBLINK:
www.midsuffolk.gov.uk
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