A TREE-hunter from Ellesmere is set to complete an epic 13-year quest to mark every tree on the famous Offa’s Dyke trail.

Rob McBride has spent more than a decade walking the 177 mile Offa’s Dyke path, making a note of the historically relevant trees he encounters along the route.

But after 13 years Rob is nearing the end of his quest, and is finally set to finish his epic expedition on Friday, April 24.

Speaking about his decade-long mission to mark the historic trees along the famous route, Rob said he has been delighted with the experience.

“I could sum it up in one word, tree-mendous,” said Mr McBride.

“When I started in 2008 I thought it would last three weeks, perhaps I’m a very slow walker.

“When you’re on the dyke path you don’t think you’re in the UK.

“Up in Llangollen you’d think you’re on a Greek island or something, the trees and scenery is so beautiful.

“The most famous tree on the Dyke is at Castle Mill in Chirk.

“It is a spectacular oak and the last witness to the Battle of Grogan.

“The Dyke, from the summer path at Chirk Castle down to Castle Mill must be the best tree’d section of the whole path.”

Mr McBride says much of the work has gone into preserving other trees around the country.

“We are known as the European rainforest as we have so many ancient trees,” he added.

“The reason it took so long was because of the various campaigns I have been involved in to save trees.

“We’ve had some some successes, but there are lot of bad things too.

“On Sunday we were at a rally in Shrewsbury against the Darwin Oak from this relief road plan.”

Mr McBride, who is also writing a book on the subject, says once completed, he plans to run ‘Tree Safaris’ along the Offa’s Dyke Path.

“After May 17 when the lockdown eases I’m hoping to run some tree safaris – Taking people along the dyke and explaining what they’re all about,” the leaf-loving walker added.

“The BBC and Channel 5 have also spoken to me about it, and it will soon be featured on a new ITV Wales segment.”