Wigan pensioner admits to wrecking trees

William Grundy, 77, of Lee Lane, Abram, had initially denied damaging the sycamores with the intent of destroying them, but at his latest appearance before Wigan justices he changed his plea and was hit with two £1,500 fines.

The hearing was told the prosecution related to nine trees large enough for experts to conclude they had been there for up to 60 years. They were protected by a tree preservation order and yet they were destroyed without permission from the council.

With costs and a victim services surcharge added, he faces a £3,637 bill.

He was co-accused with William Dodd, 73, of Warrington Road, Abram, but the latter has denied the charges and will be tried on July 12.

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