An iconic Maldon tree will be chopped down as it poses a threat to the public.

Town councillors decided to remove the large holm oak, believed to be 150-years-old, from St Peter’s churchyard in the High Street meeting, because “it can pose a significant danger to the public”.

It is believed that the tree, which was found to have a fungal infection, may fall at any moment.

A plaque to commemorate the tree will be carved from the remaining wood which has not been infected.

A new native tree will be planted in the churchyard to replace the holm oak.