In the tranquil village of Lower Brailes, Warwickshire, a 250-year-old sycamore is at the heart of a heated £70,000 dispute! Richard and Melanie Gray have been hit with a ‘threatening’ letter from their local diocese, blaming their ancient tree for damage to an adjacent vicarage. The couple, who have cherished this historic landmark since purchasing their home in 1982, are caught in a stand-off.
The Diocese of Coventry claims the tree should be removed or a costly root barrier should be built. Yet, the Grays have found no signs of damage on their property, suggesting other issues, like a burst pipe, might be to blame.
“No cracks or major damage here!” says Richard, a retired inventor. The tree, once a selling point of The Old Parsonage, was beloved by the couple and featured in sale brochures. But now, the diocese insists it’s causing subsidence, demanding they fund costly measures or face legal action.
Ironically, the diocese, a supposed beacon of community spirit, has opted for legal confrontation instead of dialogue. Mr Gray, aged 76, is dumbfounded: “They preach ‘love thy neighbour,’ yet threaten us with bills.”
The magnificent tree, known as the Four Shire Tree, stands as a symbol of biodiversity, home to countless critters. “It’s not just about heritage; it’s about the environment too!” Mr Gray adds.
As the diocese contemplates selling the affected property, the Grays are left fighting to protect a piece of their home and the local landscape. Stay tuned as this village controversy continues to unfold! 🌳💼🔍