The National Trust’s Isle of Wight boss will face villagers tonight (Monday 9th November 2026) after news the much-loved Fairy Tree at St Helens Duver is set to be removed.
General manager Mike Greenslade is due at St Helens Parish Council after a notice was attached to the ‘special and magical’ landmark stating it must be taken down for public safety.
Who is Mike Greenslade?
Mr Greenslade, who also chairs the Isle of Wight National Landscape, oversees a vast swathe of assets and operations including 5,500 acres of land and 17 miles of coastline, five pay-for-entry properties as well as around 280 staff and volunteers.
Tree ‘no longer safe’ after inspection
The charity’s notice said,
“Following an annual safety inspection, our tree specialists have advised that this tree is no longer safe and will need to be taken down.
“The safety of our visitors, volunteers and staff must always come first. While this is a difficult decision, it is necessary to ensure the area remains safe for everyone to enjoy.”
Tributes and messages on the tree
The National Trust previously announced plans to remove tributes and messages from the tree if they are not in-keeping with the natural environment.
It said items such as plastics and other artificial materials could harm wildlife and affect the surrounding landscape.
Parish council meeting
St Helens Parish Council will meet at the village’s Community Centre from 7.30pm.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
