CAMPAIGNERS filled the public gallery at a meeting of Ribble Valley Borough council to protest at the felling of 41 trees in Clitheroe Castle grounds -- only to discover the work had already begun.

Jo Harding, speaking on behalf of the protesters, asked the council last night why it had decided to hold a public consultation after the first phase of the work, when more than half would already have been axed.

He added: "It is a complete waste of time to hold discussions after the event.

"The review period will only be a matter of weeks when it should be a whole year to see the whole seasonal impact the felling will have on the castle keep."

In response, Coun Harry Backhouse, chairman of the council's community committee which decided to go ahead with the work, said: "We are mindful of the various views of people expressed, from the petitions, letters and articles produced.

"The work is now under way and, at the end of the first phase, there will be further opportunity for people to give their opinions before the work recommences."

Speaking after the meeting, Jo Harding said: "I cannot believe how cynical and arrogant the council is to start the felling work before last night's meeting when members knew this matter would be raised.

"It is very bad public relations, if nothing else, and leaves me feeling both sad and angry."