What are ancient trees and how are they protected?

Ancient trees are not valuable despite their decay and rot – but frequently because of it.

Though it may sound like a cause for concern, decay is a natural part of a tree’s development.

Splitting bark, cavities, hollow trunks and pockets of water create “microhabitats” that support bats, birds, insects, fungi and other species.

“All of these little microhabitats are what make an ancient tree more ecologically important,” said Stokes.

“It’s all the other things that live in and around it. Oaks can support up to 2,000 different species.”

But beyond their ecological value, ancient trees also serve as living links to the country’s past.

The oldest yew tree in Hampshire, at All Saints Church in Farringdon near Alton, is estimated to be between 2,500 and 3,000 years old.

That means it may have first taken root long before the Roman conquest of Britain, predating Christianity itself.

Across Britain, some ancient trees are older than Stonehenge.

Stokes said: “That’s an astonishing thought process because everybody sees Stonehenge as part of the nation’s heritage.

“But a tree that’s quietly been growing for the same period of time wouldn’t necessarily be on anybody’s radar as part of our heritage.”