POPULAR street art which caused controversy when it was erected has been removed -- to be repaired.

The blue metal tree, which usually stands on the corner of Bocholt Way and Bury Road, close to the Queen's Square roundabout and Rawtenstall fire station, is part of the Irwell Sculpture Trail.

The tree has been taken away by council workers to be repaired.

Acting leisure officer Ken Claxon said: "It is now in our parks depot.

"There is a problem with the weld which is underground and it started to get into a dangerous condition.

"The tree is made of steel and some of the steel which was underground needed to be strengthened. Once new steel has been added it will be replaced."

Mr Claxon said he was surprised the tree's absence had not prompted more inquiries because last week it was brightly decorated with balloons and streamers shortly before it was taken down to be sent away for repair.

The Bocholt Tree -- or blue tree or metal tree as it is known to locals -- was designed and constructed in 1992 by Bernard Tindall of Raku Works Sculptural Arts, in Rossendale.

It is situated close to the Bocholt plaque which marks the twinning link between Rossendale and Bocholt which is celebrating its golden jubilee this year.

The tree should be back in its proper place on Monday.