Online hoaxers have been blasted for spreading fake rumours about a famous 1,000-year-old oak tree in Sherwood Forest dying.
Legend has it that Robin Hood and his Merry Men met under The Major Oak near Edwinstowe, Notts.
The 92ft-high tree, which weighs 23 tonnes, is one of the most recognisable and well-known in the UK.
Last week wildlife enthusiasts were alarmed when rumours spread on social media warning the tree's roots had rotted and it would not survive the winter.
One Facebook post read: “If anyone has wanted to see the Major Oak, make the effort this year as it won’t be alive after this winter.
“Experts have deemed that the root system has all but rotted away and it’s not going to last this year out. Quite heartbroken.”
The disturbing post triggered a wave of people contacting the RSPB, the charity responsible for the tree’s welfare, demanding answers.
In an unprecedented move, the RSPB have denied the rumours, while acknowledging the tree has suffered as a result of extreme weather conditions in recent years.
Spokesperson Robert James said: “While it may be looking its age, it should be remembered that for over a century now, different methods have been used to support its huge limbs and roots to keep it alive.
“There has been frequent speculation about its health for many years and it has certainly endured some challenges in recent times, including three consecutive droughts during peak growing periods combined with unprecedented high temperatures of 40C in July 2022.
“One of the biggest challenges it faces is the impact of soil compaction above its vast root system, caused by decades of visitors walking up to the tree.
“This has made it harder for rainwater to penetrate the soil and for essential microbial activity to take place below the surface.
“In response, a fence was installed in the 1970s and Nottinghamshire County Council used a range of techniques to try and alleviate the issue, which is still affecting the tree, as are the effects of climate change.
“The RSPB, which manages the Sherwood Forest reserve today, is now working alongside some of the UK’s leading tree and soil health experts to carefully aerate the soil around the tree’s roots, increasing oxygen flow, as well as to add a mulch made from natural material in the forest.
“The RSPB is also using technology to measure the water content and soil temperature, as well as the growth and shrinkage of the tree, in real time.
“Water flow rates and the chlorophyll content of the tree’s leaves are also being regularly tested.
“Vegetation around the base of the tree is being allowed to grow naturally to help break up the compacted earth and to retain moisture and vital nutrients.
“This project is ongoing and it is hoped that, while all trees do eventually reach the end of their life, the Major Oak will still continue to live and be in leaf for many years to come.”
