Christmas tree removed after repeated tumbles

The tree at Horse and Groom Square, Goldthorpe, had to be taken away after repeatedly falling

A community Christmas tree repeatedly felled by windy weather and anti-social behaviour in South Yorkshire has been removed.

Barnsley Council said the spruce at Horse and Groom Square, Goldthorpe, had to be taken away after strong gusts knocked it over, along with lights being reportedly cut by vandals.

Councillor Wendy Cain, the council's cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said: "Despite our best efforts to maintain the tree, the situation has become unsustainable."

A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police said: "Inquiries are ongoing to determine if any incidents of vandalism have taken place at the location."

Councillor Wendy Cain says the situation with the tree had become "unsustainable"

"We are working closely with local officers from South Yorkshire Police regarding the issues with the Christmas tree," Cain told the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

"Our goal has always been to bring joy to the community, and we will continue to explore ways to create a positive festive experience for residents while balancing the practical challenges we've faced this year."

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