COUNCILLORS have made the “regrettable” decision to fell a tree after it sustained substantial damage during high winds in early October.

A large branch snapped off the Cedar of Lebanon tree in the gardens of Farnham Library.

Following inspections by Councillor George Hesse, he penned an open letter alongside councillors John ‘Scotty’ Fraser and Kika Mirylees, sharing their “sadness” that they have all agreed to fell the tree, considering the amount of damage it has suffered.

The councillors have recognised that trunks and branches of the tree will involve “quite an undertaking” to haul away.

They would also “like to keep three or four good lengths” as they believe a tree carver could make good use of the wood.

They added: “Tree carving is popular and it could provide a reminder of this much-loved tree that has stood in the garden for hundreds of years.”

It was also suggested further trunks could be made into benches and the remaining timber could find a home with furniture or craft makers.

A formal announcement on the library’s website, dated October 11, states the gardens are closed until further notice because of urgent tree repairs.

But this week the tree was still standing and no official date has been set for the felling.