Windermere tree 'vandalism' investigation continues

A section of trees at the lakeside were cut down late last year

An investigation into an "act of unspeakable vandalism" on the shore of England's largest lake is continuing, Lake District authorities say.

Several trees were cut down next to Windermere in December leading to an outcry from people in the area.

The Forestry Commission served a "restocking notice" in April calling for almost 250 trees to be planted by the person responsible for the site.

It had also launched an investigation into the incident and the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) has confirmed it is still helping the organisation with that work.

The shoreline had a number of mature trees before the felling last year

An LDNPA spokesperson said: "The planning system does not control the felling of trees at this site. This is instead regulated by the Forestry Act.

"We are supporting the Foresty Commission with their investigation."

It is an offence in the UK to fell certain trees without a licence or relevant permission and is punishable by an unlimited fine.

Whether or not a conviction has been secured, the commission can serve a notice on the individual responsible for the land requiring them to replace the trees.

Failure to comply can result in an enforcement notice being issued.

At the time of the felling, one resident told the Local Democracy Reporting Service it had been an "act of unspeakable vandalism".

There were also concerns the trees' removal meant a loss of habitat for wildlife.