Caroline Leafe
Caroline Leafe, a 70-year-old woman from East Sussex, experienced a life-altering incident on January 25, 2023. While walking with her husband, Kenneth, and their dog, Monty, in Ashdown Forest, they were struck by a falling silver birch tree. The tree, which was being felled due to rot, caused Caroline to suffer a traumatic brain injury, a fractured collarbone, several fractured ribs, and a shoulder dislocation. She spent significant time in intensive care and continues to undergo physical and cognitive therapy¹.
The Conservators of Ashdown Forest, responsible for managing the area, were fined £8,000 and ordered to pay additional costs for failing to implement safety measures during the tree felling. Despite her injuries, Caroline has shown resilience, regaining some independence, including the ability to drive again.