Chad readers share memories and reaction following death of Major Oak
Chad readers have been sending us their reaction and memories of the Major Oak following the sad news it has died.
The Major Oak, one of the UK’s most iconic trees due to its links to the legend of Robin Hood has died after failing to produce any leaves this year.
The iconic tree which stands at the heart of Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, is estimated to be up to 1,200 years old, but has been in decline for some time. This is despite tireless efforts by the RSPB, which manages the forest, and leading tree and soil health experts, to improve its health and prolong its life.
The Chad Facebook has been inundated with reaction and fond memories from readers who grew up visiting this iconic landmark.
Annette Hill posted: “So sad I remember going for walks on some Sundays with my Mum brother Jamie sister Robbie and next door neighbours and they used to be able to climb in it a long time before it got fenced off, happy memories.”
Mickey Warnock posted: “When I flew on Pan-Am to the UK from America for the first time in the early 70's as a little girl to meet my grandparents and uncles. They took me to Sherwood Forest (they lived in Mansfield Woodhouse) to visit the tree. I have an old black and white photo somewhere, of me peeking out from inside the tree.”
Jake Sales posted: “Lived in nearby Clumber Park so the Major Oak was often spoken about by locals and visitors. Part of the identity of the area.”
Janet Ratcliff posted: "My dad introduced me to the Major Oak when I was 5 years old. In those days (early 1950’s) it didn’t have any protection from the public and I remember signs of random acts of vandalism even back then. I have since visited it whenever I could and watched the gentle decline.”
Wendy Flower posted: “Oh no can't believe it. My childhood was spent playing inside this tree.”
Julie Mckillop posted: “When I was a child, I, and a group of friends used to cycle to Sherwood Forest to play and have a picnic. The Major Oak was always a place to stop and play hide and seek among the trees. It will always hold very special memories for me.”
June Hall posted: “When I used to visit Sherwood forest as a child I can remember going into the tree and standing there and just looking up. It's very sad.”
Dane Wragg posted: “Been around a long time..sad but its gone through generations. Done well.”
Christopher Moon posted: “Played in it as a kid. Visited it when home from Sydney.”
Veronica Petrovic posted: “So sad bought happy memories for so many people.”
Carol Pyle: “So many memories of this tree , so sad.”
Kate Wylie posted: “Very sad . Fond memories of Sunday afternoon visits.”
Dinger Bell posted: “Sad news, many happy memories playing around the tree.”
The tree will still remain an important part of the regions history and stand as a ‘natural monument’ for visitors and wildlife to enjoy for years to come.