A six-metre tall tree that was found abandoned at a roadside near a care home in a mid Suffolk town has been saved and taken to be replanted in a community space.
The silver birch was discovered at the side of Prentice Road in Stowmarket by a member of the public last week, when councillors sprung into action to save the tree and make sure it was "not lost forever".
The large tree had been discarded near the luxury care home Langham Manor, with its root ball unusually in tact.
After being found, the birch was investigated by Mid Suffolk councillor Colin Lay, who realised that urgent action was needed for the tree to be saved.
Fellow councillor John Matthissen and Mid Suffolk District Council’s Public Realm team quickly answered the call for help and sprung into action.
The tree was so heavy it took four people to lift it into a trailer before the Public Realm team transported to Red Gables, a wellbeing hub and meeting place for many community groups.
The tree was replanted on Friday, August 25 in the grounds of Red Gables in Ipswich Road in Stowmarket, by the councillors and members of the Volunteers of Stowmarket group.
Mr Lay, who is also a Stowmarket Tree Warden, said: “This was an unusual discovery and it was clear we needed to take urgent action.
“We are not sure where the tree was from, but are pleased we have been able to plant it at Red Gables so it can grow and thrive. I would like to thank everyone who helped.”
Mr Matthissen added: “We were determined to prevent this tree from being lost forever, and thanks to some quick thinking and fantastic teamwork involving council officers, we have been able to do exactly that.”
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