War of the woods

Around 30 eco-activists '“ known as 'Swampies' '“ occupied trees in Titnore Woods, Durrington, on Sunday, where they built a series of tree house structures 20 feet above the ground.

The group was visited briefly by landowner Clem Somerset, who asked what their plans were, and police later served them a notice under the Criminal Justice Bill requiring them to move "at the earliest opportunity".

Speaking on Tuesday morning, a spokesperson for the group, who asked not to be named, said residents from nearby housing estates had visited with gifts of food and equipment to show their support.

She said: "We want to raise awareness about the destruction of these woodlands, so it doesn't go ahead, and raise awareness about road-building.

"There's a lot of people that don't want it to happen. It's important we are taking active steps to stop it happening."

The campaign was sparked in 2001 by plans for 875 new homes on a 99-acre site on land east of Titnore Lane and north of Fulbeck Avenue.

Some claim Mr Somerset could make up to 70m from the sale of the land.

See this week's Herald for the full story.