Officials say drivers and pedestrians had a lucky escape as the 70ft sequoia came crashing down in West Street
Ferocious winds brought down a 70ft sequoia tree near the centre of Axminster at around 1pm today (Wednesday).
Officials say it was incredibly lucky that no motorists or pedestrians were passing by when it came crashing down, completely blocking both carriageways in West Street.
Police have closed the road and East Devon District Council staff are currently on scene removing branches to try to re-open the highway.
The tree was one of three on the boundary of the West Street car park, opposite the town’s Guildhall. Officials say experts are being called in to check the safety of the others.
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