THE axe will fall on Thornton-in-Craven's Love Tree after a second survey said it was in a dangerous state.

As reported previously, parish councillors in the village commissioned a report on the historic lime tree, which is thought to be around 200 years old and stands at the heart of the village.

The survey, by local arboriculturalist Iain Taverndale, recommended the tree should be felled as it was in a hazardous state through a combination of old age, decay and previous undesirable management.

However, many villagers were keen to save it if at all possible and the parish council decided to seek a second opinion.

They commissioned Jonathan Cocking Associates, an arboriculturalist firm from Halifax, to carry out a second survey, but their report made equally depressing reading.

It stated: "The tree is currently in a dangerous state, with large areas of deadwood within its crown and an essentially hollow or seriously impaired centre.

"These two facts make this tree a significant hazard to passers-by and nearby property.

"Its removal and replacement with a semi-mature tree of the same species would be a safe solution and would be the most cost-effective solution in the long term."

Parish councillors held an extraordinary meeting on Monday to consider the report and decide the fate of the Love Tree.

Clerk Helen Hundsdoerfer said: "The parish council unanimously resolved that unfortunately the tree must come down because of the second report indicating that it was not safe to leave it up.

"Something needs to be done because of the health and safety aspect. We could not shoulder that responsibility."

Mrs Hundsdoerfer said it was the council's intention to replace the tree and also to compile a full history of the original Love Tree.

The council's decision was discussed at a public meeting last night (Thursday) when Mr Taverndale was due to give a presentation explaining both reports and answering any questions.