A NEW campaign group, spurred into action by plans to fell almost 30 trees in Tavistock?s two cemeteries, held its inaugural meeting in the town last week.

Around 19 people concerned by threats to the town?s tree stock attended the meeting, which was held in the subscription library at Court Gate.

Brian Fyfield-Shayler, co-ordinator of the group, said he had been ?increasingly dismayed? by the rate of tree felling which had been carried out in Tavistock in recent years, ?most of it unwarranted? he said.

During the meeting, a committee of eight was selected to take the group forward, possibly in connection with a national organisation such as the Tree Council or International Tree Foundation, or as a local branch of either group. The committee will meet on June 30 to decide the way forward.

Mr Fyfield-Shayler said: ?It was felt wise to continue to focus time and energy on the trees in the two cemeteries, until their future is assured.

?After that, consideration might be given to wider aims and activities.?

Mr Fyfield-Shayler said further action could include seeking additional tree preservation orders in the area, working with other Tavistock-based groups on tree-related projects and involving the younger generation in tree preservation work.

There was public outcry last month when it was revealed the town council, which is responsible for the cemeteries in Dolvin Road and Plymouth Road, planned to fell 26 trees which it said posed safety risks.

On learning of the depth of public feeling about the trees, the council deferred a decision to fell and sought a second opinion on the trees.

Mr Fyfield-Shayler told the meeting he had heard the new expert?s report was ?far less dire? and he hoped remedial measures less drastic than felling could be used to make the trees safe.

He has already drawn up his own photographic record outlining the case for saving the trees which he considers of particular importance to the Tavistock landscape.

The next full meeting of the TTPG will be held in a month ? date and venue to be announced.