Over 200 year old tree to be cut down due to Dutch elm disease

A historic tree in the north which died of Dutch elm disease will need to be cut down soon. 

Ballaugh Commissioners confirmed it will work with the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture to remove the large elm in the village's play park.

The local authority said the tree was between 200 to 250 years old, with many generations having fond memories of it. 

It explained there were plans to possibly make an artistic carving out of the stump, or replant a tree and dedicate it to a nominated local hero.