07:03-e-Catalog - Flipbook - Page 22
Richmond Park, in south west London,
has over 320 ancient veteran oak trees.
Some are over 750 years old but all are
of international significance. The strange
shape of each tree is unique due to early
years of pollarding. This practice ceased
in the middle of the 18th Century when
coal became the predominent source of
fuel.
The trees have a powerful presence.
During their very long lifetime they
have contributed much to the well-being
of others - plants, birds, insects, fungi,
air and people. The movement of fluids
and energies represented in the swirls
of the bark and heartwood is similar to
the interesting skin, face and body of a
very old person. The life story of these
wonderful trees may have been better
understood by ancient man or indigenous
people whose bond to these trees would
have been strong.
Veteran Oak Trees
