NATURE lovers in Clitheroe have slammed a council decision to chop down a popular tree known as "the elephant tree."

The 30ft high weeping beech on the grounds of Clitheroe Castle was removed this week by Ribble Valley Council after concerns it was leaning dangerously over a path.

But protesters claim it was just the distinctive shape of the tree, which included a trunk-like branch that curved upwards that earned its name - and its place in the hearts of the townsfolk.

Residents claim the 50-year-old tree was a magnet for parents and children and a natural attraction from the park.

A meeting on the grounds yesterday by the Friends of Clitheroe Castle, a group set up to help maintain the park, heard residents demanded to have more say on future decisions to fell trees.

Resident Leone Wilson, 43, of Wilson Street, Clitheroe, said the Elephant tree would be missed. "Many people are sad that it's gone. Even some of the groundsmen said they would miss it," she said. "I've got a five-year-old boy who loved that tree because of its unusual shape.

"It was one of many trees planted after the park was built in the 1920s and it helped contribute to the unique feel of the park.

"The council didn't consult with the public at large about this, they just told the Friends of Clitheroe Castle. We hope next time they plan to remove a beautiful tree everyone is consulted."

A spokeswoman for Ribble Valley Council said the weeping beech, which was situated near the lower bowling green, was dangerously unbalanced. She added: "Following concerns from maintenance staff, our countryside officer agreed it was dangerous.

"It was a species of tree that required a lot of space for its roots but this particular one was planted too near other trees. So it became unstable in the ground.

"It has no tree preservation order on it and we do not need planning permission to chop it down. We also didn't need to consult anyone but we contacted the Friends out of courtesy."

The council has also agreed to plant a new tree.