A proposed second runway at Gatwick would destroy ancient woodland, a campaign group has warned.

The Woodland Trust has issued the warning ahead of a decision on the plans.

They claim all three proposals put out for consultation by Gatwick bosses would destroy up to 19 acres or woodland.

Campaigner Katharine Rist said the plans would “obliterate” the areas of woodland surrounding the airport.

She said: “It's crucial the impact on ancient woodland is given appropriate weighting in any consultation on expansion and we would urge everyone to respond on this basis.

“At the moment, these new plans only serve as yet another example of why ancient woodland needs better protection from national infrastructure.”

A 12-week consultation on Gatwick's proposals will finish on 15 August.