Work to fell an iconic Maldon tree begins this weekend.

The holm oak in St Peter's Churchyard, in the High Street, is believed to be up to 120-years-old.

But town councillors decided last November to remove it because a fungal infection means it could fall at any moment.

Work is due to be carried out between Saturday and Monday, weather permitting.

The tree had been monitored regularly since a fungal growth at the base was discovered in 2010.

A commemorative plaque will be carved from the uninfected wood and a new native tree will be planted.