A diseased beech tree which was felled at the Bath Grounds this week was estimated to be around 200 years old.

The tree was situated close to the Bowls Club and had a fungal infection.

It was felled on Wednesday, and Ashby de la Zouch Town Council's Tree Warden has provided photos of the moment it was removed - as well as showing the decaying wood.

But he also confirmed that the council could receive a grant for 'up to 20 trees' to replace those lost.

Ian told Ashby Nub News: "The tree has been checked regularly and has had, for some years, the fungus Giant Polypore, which attacks the base and root system.

"Attempts have been made to save it, but eventually it had to go because it was leaning over the busy path.

"Demolition was done by Eden Tree Care on behalf of Ashby de la Zouch Town Council and, as the pictures show, there is a hollow core and much soft, spongey dead wood at the base, which extends through the roots.

The tree's decay could be seen after it was felled

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"The tree, by my estimate, would be up to 200 years old, and several large pieces will be retained in a wild corner of the Bath Grounds to assist with biodiversity; dead and dying wood is a vital resource for many species of insects which in turn provide food for birds and small mammals.

"As part of the long-term strategy for the Bath Grounds, there is a plan to plant more trees to replace those lost and we are hoping to soon receive a grant through the County Council for up to 20 trees."

Cllr Chris Smith, leader of Ashby de la Zouch Town Council, said on social media that it was one of the 'hardest decisions' he had had to make.

The beech tree provided an impressive site at the Bath Grounds

He posted: "The decision to fell this tree is one of the hardest decisions I have had to make since being elected to Ashby de la Zouch Town Council. 

"As a founding member of The Friends of the Bath Grounds, the Bath Grounds are very important to me. 

"But councillors volunteer and are elected, to take on the role of making decisions on behalf of the community. 

Ashby de la Zouch Council leader, Cllr Chris Smith. Photo: Supplied

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"In this case. all the advice was consistent. 

"That is not always the case and some decisions are much more finely balanced. 

"However, we do make them in a way that we believe is in the best interests of the community, recognising that not everybody will always agree."