Tortoise is silver lining after oak torn down by storm
Published: 06:50, 03 June 2014
| Updated: 12:23, 21 January 2015
When a 100-year-old oak tree nearly smashed into a Hermitage home during February’s storms, most people saw only the destructive power of nature.
However, retired Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service firefighter Jack Langford saw an opportunity.
Mr Langford, aged 72, said: “I helped clear the debris and told a friend of mine who carves wood.
“He said green oak was perfect for carving and, as a ‘thank you’, he offered me something to keep.
“I challenged him to make a Galapagos tortoise... and here it is.”
The tortoise is now a proud fixture in the garden at Mr Langford’s home in Bath Road, Thatcham.