THE oldest tree in a community garden is in need of care and attention after it was damaged in the snow.

A branch from Cedar of Lebanon, estimated to be 300 years old, became partially detached at Wychwood Wild Garden in Shipton-under-Wychwood.

The branch broke under the weight of snow and is now straggling into the pond on site.

Mike Watson, chairman of Wychwood Wild Garden Company was surveying the damage yesterday. The company is waiting for weather conditions to improve so that a tree surgeon can carry out work on it.

Mr Watson, 66, from Shipton-under-Wychwood said: “The Cedar of Lebanon is probably the oldest tree in the garden and its very special. We are concerned about preserving it for as long as possible.

“It is not serious damage but you do feel like you are losing a bit of a friend.”

Wychwood Wild Garden is a 12.5-acre site including wild woodland, a long avenue and a network of ponds.

The company which owns the site is a group of residents who bought it in 2009 after the owner decided he wanted to hand it over to the community.

Wychwood Wild Garden Company is now creating a guide to promote the garden to visitors to the area, as they look for donations for financial support. 

For more information, see wychwoodwildgarden.org.uk