An ancient tree that was one of the first of its kind to be planted in the UK over 230 years ago was brought down Storm Kathleen.

The historic tree in Primley Park in Paignton was suffering from age-related defects and strong winds floored it last week.

According to the conservation charity responsible for the tree, Wild Planet Trust, the tree's age and height made it particularly susceptible to the high winds experienced in South Devon over the weekend - made worse by the excessive rainfall over the past few months.

The semi-evergreen hybrid of a turkey oak and a cork oak was first cultivated in the 1760s by the horticulturalist William Lucombe from Exeter.

The tree in Primley was probably one of the first cache of these oaks to be planted in the UK.

Primley Park is under the ownership and management of conservation charity Wild Planet Trust, which also owns nature reserves at Clennon Gorge and Slapton Ley.

Dave Ellacott, Reserve Warden for the Trust, said: “In 2006, we undertook extensive tree surgery to extend its life and mitigate any potential damage that could be caused by a collapse.

"We had hoped that this work would see the tree hang on for longer, and are devastated to have lost it so soon.

"However, we are thankful that, as a result of the work carried out, no significant damage or harm has been done.”

The incident followed the recent collapse of a 50-year-old cherry tree at Paignton Zoo, which is also part of the Wild Planet Trust charity.