Extinction Rebellion hold memorial for felled Boscombe tree

Councillors, activists, and residents gathered in Boscombe High Street to mourn the loss of the tree. 

A shock to residents, they have complained the popular tree was cut down with no public consultation or notice given. 

Resident Jacky Demsey said: "We gathered in remembrance for the Boscanova tree. Waking up to find it suddenly gone was shock for everyone.

"There was no public consultation or notice from the council before killing this much-loved tree which seems indicative of an attitude that finds little value in the natural world and gives very little respect to it."

Drummers from Extinction Rebellion led a procession from Boscombe Tardis to the stump which can be found outside popular café, Boscanova. 

The crowd sang an adapted version of Bella Ciao which is based on a protest folk song. 

Jackie said: "Let us remember also that this council voted to recognise the climate and ecological emergency. Unless every department acts in the interest of the environment, no good changes will happen. The council is meant to be working for us, caring our town; that is their job.

"It is, very sadly, too late for this tree, the decades of benefits it has brought to this area erased in a few hours. We need our council to understand and acknowledge how painful it was for our community to suddenly discover an ugly stump where once was a beloved and valued tree."

The crowd hopes the remaining stump can be carved to create a poignant artistic piece.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: "BCP Council recently removed a tree on Boscombe High Street which was beginning to cause substantial structural damage to nearby buildings, including local high street businesses.

“We appreciate the crucial role trees play in shaping and benefitting our natural environment, and the council would only remove healthy trees in very exceptional circumstances.

“Where the removal of a tree is deemed essential, proposed works are exempt from public consultation.”