Storm Henk in Sussex: photos show huge historic chestnut tree blown over in Barcombe

The incident happened in Church Lane during Storm Henk, which battered Sussex with high winds this week.

Residents believe the tree was 350 years old.

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Neighbour Harry Pike said: “This is a terribly sad sight, a magnificent tree that began life when England was still recovering from the plague and the Great Fire of London. The trunk is almost two metres across. Centuries of growth, toppled in a moment. We have to be thankful no one was crushed to death, and well done Balfour Beatty and the Highways department for responding so quickly.”

Residents in the area reported hearing a loud crash as the tree broke from the roadside embankment. They said it crashed across the road and into a field opposite, blocking Church Lane. They said East Sussex Highways contractors worked to clear the road.

A spokesperson for East Sussex Highways said: “Our teams received nearly 100 emergency calls from members of the public during Storm Henk and worked throughout the day and late into the evening on Tuesday to help clear the damage caused by the strong winds and heavy rain.

“We were made aware of a large fallen tree blocking Church Road in Barcombe early on Tuesday afternoon, which was one of over 50 blown down or damaged trees we dealt with as a result of the storm. Tree surgeons visited the site and the road was closed while the tree was removed. The road was reopened later that evening.”