Last minute petition to save our much-loved historic pear tree near Cubbington attracts 10,000 signatures in just three weeks

The pear tree in full bloom, when walker were allowed to access it.

A last minute plea has been made to save our much-loved historic landmark - the 250-year-old pear tree near Cubbington.

The tree - voted England’s tree of the year in 2015 - is set to be knocked down to make way for the new high speed rail line (HS2).

Over the years there have been numerous protests about the decision - and now a petition calling for HS2 line to be rerouted or at least for the tree to be removed to has gathered 10,000 signatures in just the last three weeks.

HS2 workers at the site on Friday September 18.

By going over the 10,000 mark, this means that the Government has to repond to the matter.

Rory Reynolds, who started the petition, said: "In just three weeks over 10,000 people have signed this Parliamentary petition which shows the strength of feeling across the country on the destruction of ancient woodland for HS2.

"HS2 plan on cutting down this beloved tree which is older than the United States. If they wanted to, they could move the Cubbington pear and other ancient trees, instead of just cutting them down.

"This is our last chance to save this part of our natural heritage. 449 of Matt Western’s constituents and also 681 of Jeremy Wright’s constituents want action to save the Cubbington pear tree, so we need our politicians to act now and we need HS2 Ltd to listen to the people. Relocate the pear tree!"

Last week, HS2 workers were spotted removing branches branches from trees near the pear tree and many thought they were going to start work on its destruction.

But they said that the felling of the pear tree will not begin until the actual construction begins.

To sign the petition, visit: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/548834