A CHRISTMAS tree labelled an 'embarrassment' has been removed from Stockton Heath – after a new one was rushed into the village today, Friday.

Residents voiced their concerns in the past week after the tree, which was looking bare, was placed opposite the Mulberry Tree, off London Road.

Paul Kilburn, from Appleton, said: "I never thought I would see the day that we in Stockton Heath and the surrounding area would have the embarrassment of such a twig as a tree.

"It's a joke. Who wants this in their Christmas photo memories?

"Do the people not deserve better and especially with all the torment and sadness that's going on in people's lives."

Stockton Heath Parish Council has been working hard to rectify the problem and a new tree was put up today.

Parish councillor and Appleton borough councillor Peter Walker admitted he was 'disappointed' with the state of the previous tree.

Chairman of the parish council Celia Jordan, who turned 82 today, was on site when the new one was delivered.

"We are really pleased to see that it has been put up," she said.

"It looks more bushy and has a bigger circumference.

"The clerk has worked very hard to sort the matter out."

Cllr Jordan will be in the village to switch on the lights at 6pm tonight.

"I am really looking forward to it and excited to listen to the pupils perform as part of the choir," she added.