Business calls for the community to team together after a tree was illegally felled.

A Silver Birch tree in Market Square, Waltham Abbey was found vandalised as it was illegally cut down in the early mornings of Monday (September 23).

The removal of the tree caused anger across businesses located near the market square as the tree was one of only six trees as the market.

Eoin McGovern, manager of The Welsh Harp pub, Market Square, was among one of the many business members distraught over the news of the tree. He said: “I was disappointed to see this vandalism which undermines the good work our councils and small businesses are doing to bring people into the town.

“Everyone talks about how great this town used to be – it’s important that we as individuals, businesses and community groups step up when something like this happens.”

While the loss of the tree is still recent, there are already discussions to replace the Silver Birch tree with a new one as The Welsh Harp launched a fundraiser for its replacement.

A collection tin can be found at the bar of The Welsh Harp and the collection has already seen the support of other businesses and residents.

Councillor Helen Kane said: “It is upsetting to see such a criminal act in our Market Square. Investigations are currently ongoing as to who the offenders are, but we want to catch them as soon as possible.

“We hope to have the participation of the public and the local businesses to replace this Silver Birch with a much stronger and larger tree and perhaps plant a couple more.”

Councillor Dave Plummer added: “Chopping down the tree shows a complete disregard for Waltham Abbey’s community and a stunning display of ignorance around the importance of trees for local wellbeing and global climate.”

“However, the speed with which Peter and The Welsh Harp came forward shows the real spirit of Waltham Abbey.”