An ex-forestry worker is taking on his ex-bosses in a bid to stop specimen trees being felled near his Ampfield home.

Knapp Lane resident, Graham Ralph, is furious at Forest Enterprises plans to chop down Monterey pines and other trees bordering his Hawkers Paddock garden.

He's now taken the matter up with Romsey MP, Sandra Gidley and borough councillor, Martin Hatley.

He said: "There's no need to fell these trees. I'm not going to let them do it without a fight. I'm extremely concerned about this because they are wonderful trees.

With the Forestry Commission not needing permission, I am worried that they could move in at any time and quickly fell the trees."

He said he discovered Forest Enterprises plans by chance when he challenged a man he spotted looking around on land at Ampfield Wood.

"There is another issue here. They want me to move my van from where I park it because they want to fence off the area. I've always parked there and have never been challenged by anyone.

"Forest Enterprises say chemicals were stored in a shed there. But this is not true. They also say they want to put a dwelling on the site," said Mr Ralph

Ampfield Parish Council chief, Martin Hatley, is also alarmed at the proposals. "This small corner of Ampfield Wood is important locally. It provides a very attractive backdrop to historic Knapp within the conservation area.

"The parish council recognises the value of the enclave of ex-forestry workers cottages and compact arboretum of fine trees, such as Monterey pine, Wellingtonia and oak.

"A couple of years ago, the parish council asked the borough council for this area to be considered as an extension to the existing conservation area when it is reviewed shortly by the borough council, for protection purposes.

"Forestry Enterprises are exploring ways in which they can maximise their assets, as they are required to do.

"But I share the great concerns of Graham Ralph and other residents that this might lead to the unwelcome and unnecessary felling of some of these trees, which are enjoyed both by residents and walkers using the right of way to Hursley," added Mr Hatley.

"It's important that Forest Enterprises appreciate that nothing would be gained from the felling of these trees.

"Although borough councils do not generally put tree preservation orders on trees within the control of other responsible 'authorities', I am actively investigating what can be done to protect such trees if there is a fear that a 'responsible' authority might act irresponsibly," said Mr Hatley.