Villagers furious as Christmas tree chopped down hours after lights go on

Residents in a UK village have been left furious after a Christmas tree was chopped down just hours after its lights were switched on. It has been confirmed that two men have been arrested following a local police appeal.

The tree, which has stood in the village of Shotton Colliery, County Durham, for over 10 years was cut down between 10pm and 11pm on Wednesday (December 10). Police said two men, aged 26 and 23, were arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage. The force added officers are “in the process” of charging the 26-year-old while the 23-year-old has been released under investigation.

As reported by the BBC, Steve Maitland, chairman of the Shotton Residents Association, said on Friday (December 12) that the tree was put up as a monument to the fallen soldiers of World War One. Local residents are now making a sleeve for the base of the tree in the hope to get it back up as quickly as possible for the Christmas period.

Mr Maitland told BBC Radio Tees: “These people who did this – I don’t think they understand the history and the feeling of these things.” He described the attack as “mindless vandalism” but added he could not “turn the clock back”.

Durham Police previously launched a public appeal for information after the tree was chopped down. They urged witnesses or anyone with relevant information on what happened to get in touch.

Peterlee Police, the local neighbourhood team, issued an update on Facebook on Friday and confirmed that officers are working on charging and remanding a 26-year-old in connection with the incident. Meanwhile, a 23-year-old man has been released under investigation.

The force said: “Thank you to everyone who has shared our appeal. Officers have today arrested two men in connection with the incident.

“The men, aged 23 and 26, have been taken into police custody where they will be interviewed by officers.”

They added: “We are pleased to report after a thorough investigation that was ably assisted by the local community we are in the process of charging and remanding a 26 year old male with Criminal Damage to the tree. He will be placed before the next available court.

“A 23 year old male has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.”

Durham Police said in a previous public appeal: “Anyone with any information that could help the investigation should contact PC 9778 Allan via email at david.allan2@durham.police.uk quoting crime reference number CRI00653425.”