The trees stood proudly at Drayton Green Lanes, affectionately known as “the beauty spot”, a peaceful nature reserve nestled along the River Wensum, one of Britain’s finest chalk streams.

The reserve, protected as a Special Area of Conservation, is a haven for wildlife as well as locals who swim in the river, walk their dogs along the boardwalk and fish along the bank.

It is believed the trees were cut down on Tuesday (Image: John Allaway)

The grim discovery was made by Esther Jury at around 8.30am on Wednesday.

Esther said: “It’s really upsetting.

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