Samuel Hughes has pleaded not guilty to an assault causing harm on Eugene Driscoll on February 15th, 2023, contrary to Section 3 (1) of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997.

Campaigner Mervyn Storey said a funding package was desperately needed to preserve the future of the Dark Hedges in Co Antrim.

Northern Ireland’s Department of Infrastructure said there is a risk to the public at the Co Antrim site.