Protester climbs Sheffield's Vernon Oak to prevent felling

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4. This is now getting ridiculous

Amey are now getting the local police force to come out in large numbers, with full riot gear when they are chopping trees down in Sheffield. A blatant waste of police resources and another black mark against South Yorkshire police.

https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/two-arrested-in-sheffield-tree-protest-as-police-in-riot-helmets-remove-campaigner-from-under-vehicle-1-9054716

Two men have been arrested as controversial tree-felling work supported by dozens of police officers and private security guards continued in Sheffield today - with one taken out from under a vehicle by police wearing riot helmets.

Felling crews supported by around 30 police officers and private security guards employed by Sheffield Council contractor Amey arrived at Kenwood Road in Nether Edge at lunchtime today with the intention of felling one of the more than 160 trees in the local area that are due for removal and replacement with saplings as part of a highways improvement contract.

Both men were arrested under section 303 of the Highways Act 1980, an offence which carries a maximum fine of £200.

Angry local residents said they were shocked at the level of police resources being used for the operation.Maxine Parkin said: "Real criminals are out committing crime and when you ring the police they don't come. It makes me feel angry to see this."