A PAIR of tree surgeons were caught red-handed cutting protected trees in historic woodland.

Mark Knight was fined £20,000 after his employees were found cutting down the 11 protected trees.

Knight's company, Landmark Tree Surgeons, was paid by landowner Geoffrey Try to fell the trees, but ended up being fined by the council and taken to court.

All three admitted to cutting down protected trees contrary to Tree Preservation Regulations and were ordered to repay all the council's legal fees alongside her own fines.

Cllr Phill Bicknell, cabinet member for highways, transport and Windsor, said: “This is an excellent example of the quick work our officers can do with the help of residents and visitors reporting an issue as soon as they see it.

“Our borough is blessed with some wonderful outdoor spaces and we take our duty to protect our nature and heritage seriously.

“I hope the level of fine and the quick action of our planning enforcement team to prosecute these individuals sends a clear message to others that there are serious consequences for those who show no respect to our woodlands and the laws that protect them."