Belvoir Castle is one of many Historic Houses properties to offer timber to rebuild Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris following the devastating fire

British oaks from Belvoir Castle could contribute towards the rebuilding of Notre Dame Cathedral.

The property is one of more than 100 members of Historic Houses, the association for independently owned historic homes and gardens, which has volunteered valuable trees planted for timber centuries ago.

The offer follows the devastating fire which broke out at the Paris landmark this week.

It’s not the first time Britain’s great houses have rallied round to help with a major heritage restoration project.

After the devastating York Minster fire in 1984 more than 40 Historic Houses properties pledged 80 oak trees for the reconstruction efforts, joining donations from the Queen and the Prince of Wales.

Given that the construction of the original roof in the 12th century is estimated to have required 1,300 mature oaks, the donors are well aware that their contribution could only provide a fraction of what’s needed, but they hope the gesture will inspire others.

President of Historic Houses, James Birch, said: "The fire at Notre Dame is a terrible tragedy. It is also a reminder of how our great buildings provide a cultural back drop to everyday life that is often only recognised when they are threatened.

"Some of our members have first-hand experience of the damage and destruction of catastrophic fires. It’s fitting that we would offer to help restore such an important part of the world’s heritage."

The trees, from sustainable forestry and already destined for use as commercial timber, are estimated to have a combined market value of well over £100,000.

But the donors are keen to emphasise that the timbers used in buildings like Notre Dame are about something that money alone can’t buy.

The Duke of Rutland said: "Anyone who lives in an old building knows there’s something special about the way it was built and the materials used.

"The trees in the original roof at Notre Dame probably started growing over 1,000 years ago.

"We’re able to donate replacements because my great-great-grandfather had the foresight to plant trees that would only be valuable long after he died. And in turn we’ll replant every tree we fell – someone will need them for something in another few hundred years.

"It’s a reminder of how important it is to both look after and renew our heritage resources. In our business you have to plan in centuries, not years."