TREES will be removed from an Evesham park on safety grounds.

Work will take place this week to remove two mature trees in Abbey Park because they pose a risk of toppling over and hurting members of the public.

Both trees have been assessed by Wychavon District Council before the decision was made. 

One of the trees is a beech tree, which is showing signs of decline within the crown, including dieback and major deadwood.

Tests also revealed significant decay and weakness in the tree’s internal structure.

A horse chestnut tree is also being removed after being found to have several fruiting fungal bodies around it as well as internal weaknesses.

Work to remove both trees will start today (Tuesday).

New trees will be planted in the park this winter to replace them.

Cllr Emma Stokes, executive board member for resident and customer service on Wychavon District Council said: “I thank residents for their understanding while this disappointing but essential work is carried out to protect users of the park.

"We will be planting replacement trees in the winter, which is the best time of year to plant trees.

"We may plant them in a slightly different area to give them the best chance to establish and thrive, but they will be in your park.”

A spokesperson for Worcestershire's Vale & Spa added: "Today, some necessary work will be taking place in Abbey Park in Evesham.

"We have identified two mature trees that pose a safety risk to you and our visitors, and sadly, they need to be removed.

"We understand this might be disappointing news, but ensuring your safety is our top priority!"

Earlier this year, three "dangerous" trees were removed from Abbey Park in Pershore.

Independent specialists were called in to carry out tests on the three trees, all of which have large holes in them and are rotting inside.

The council said the trees were so decayed there is a real risk they will topple over, posing a danger to the public as they are in a busy area of the park.

The trees were removed in July.