Residents have been left saddened by the felling of a “beautiful” tree after a council deemed it unsafe.

Dover District Council (DDC) said a substantial branch fell from the horse chestnut in Pencester Gardens during high winds on the weekend of May 24.

The authority then removed the tree last week, and says it is looking to plant a replacement “in due course”.

But the move has sparked anger among residents who say there was still hope it would recover.

One woman, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “The tree looked healthy, with lots of green growth, and we haven’t had any extreme winds recently.

“It provided shade for families and a home for wildlife. It also played a part in sequestering carbon dioxide and producing oxygen.

“We destroy nature at our peril.”

There had been speculation among residents that the removal was linked to a fun fair held at the site, but DDC confirmed this was not the case.

A spokesman said: “We do understand people’s concerns and can confirm that a substantial branch came off a tree in Pencester Gardens during high winds the weekend before last.

“Following an assessment of the tree, the council decided works were required to maintain public safety.

“Sadly, due to the extent of the original damage, the rest of the tree is due to be removed.

“We are looking to plant a replacement in due course.”