Trees along the bank of River Thames at Osney Lock, in Oxford are being trimmed back for safety reasons.

A team of specialist tree surgeons from the Environment Agency began the first stage of trimming a row of willow trees along the path yesterday.

Paul Smith, waterways operations team leader, said: "After a routine inspection of the trees, we found that some of those on the west bank, downstream of Osney Lock, needed a trim to protect the safety of the people who walk, cycle and jog along there.

"As well as overhanging the towpath, some of the larger branches are beginning to spread over the river to a point where they could interfere with passing boat traffic."

It is expected the pollarding will be carried out in two stages, each taking about two weeks.

Branches needing immediate attention will be pruned before birds begin nesting and another final trim will be made towards the end of August. Mr Smith said it was not planned to close the towpath while the work was carried out but walkers and cyclists might be asked to wait while branches were lowered to the ground.