A HORDE of mechanical monsters are on the loose - grappling with trees and helping re-shape 2,500 acres of woodland.
And the Forestry Commission is offering the public a rare chance to view their high-tech harvesting machines in action at Sneaton Forest, near Whitby, on Wednesday, July 25.
Weighing in at about 18 tonnes apiece, the huge machines have computerised 'brains' linked to a hydraulic claw, capable of felling a tree, sawing off branches and cutting wood to exact measurements.
Recreation manager Katie Thorn said: "Back in the old days, axes and two-handed cross-cut saws were used, making forestry a back-breaking job."
A mini-bus will be used to ferry people to the harvesting site for the tours, which are at 10am and 12.30pm, meeting at Maybeck car park in Sneaton Forest.
Places are limited. To book, contact 01751-472771.
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