A professional tree surgeon has denied his work resulted in the destruction of rook nests. 

Jez Prewer-Andrews, 30, is accused of breaches of the Wildlife and Countryside Act over work he carried out in Thetford on March 6.  

Norwich Magistrates’ Court was told a woman reported that birds' nests she had previously seen had been disturbed. She had lived near the trees Prewer-Andrews was contracted to work on for 55 years.

It is illegal to intentionally damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird like rooksIt is illegal to intentionally damage the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built (Image: Geograph/Mat Fascione)

All wild birds, their eggs and nests are protected by law. It is a criminal offence, with certain exceptions, to intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built.

READ MORE: Bird egg collecting 'addict', 71, is spared jail over his illegal collection

Prewer-Andrews, of Whitlingham Lane in Trowse, who on Linkedin lists his role as head arborist at Norwich-based Mainline Tree Services, pleaded not guilty in his absence after his attendance was excused. 

Sarah Dawes, prosecuting, said he had admitted carrying out work on the trees to police but had denied removing active nests. 

Magistrates granted him unconditional bail until a trial set to take place on July 25 next year.

The court was told the trial was likely to hear from ornithology experts.