Dame Judi Dench calls for the protection of Ripon Cathedral trees

Councillors on North Yorkshire Council are due to make a decision on whether the scheme can proceed, with the annexe providing a new song school for the cathedral choir, a cafe, toilet facilities and disabled access.

The plan sparked anger amongst some local residents, as it would require the felling of a veteran beech tree as well as 10 others.

In a statement, Dame Judi said: “I fully support the campaign to protect the veteran tree in Ripon, along with the other healthy urban trees under threat.

“As an ambassador for The Woodland Trust, which rightly views veteran trees as a priority, as they are irreplaceable habitat, I hope a solution can be found to protect this conservation area.”