AN appeal has been launched after a tree was illegally chopped down in Kidderminster which has caused anger in the town.

The "substantial" tree, located on Comberton Hill outside the Dixy Chicken takeaway, was felled yesterday (Thursday, May 25).

A team from Wyre Forest District Council cleared the tree, which was obstructing the highway. West Mercia Police are investigating the incident. 

Residents blasted the act of "idiotic" vandalism on social media.

Nikki Moore said: "Hope they check CCTV and get the person that done this.

"Those trees have been there for years and there were birds nesting in there.

"Absolutely barbaric and idiotic behaviour".

Councillor Fran Oborski described the act as "awful vandalism".

Gerry Dawson said: "Felt sorry for council tree experts having to deal with the mess.

"So sad there are idiots like this around".

A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: "Police are investigating an illegal felling of a substantial tree on Comberton Hill, Kidderminster at around 1.48pm on Thursday 25th May.

"Officers are asking for the public’s help to identify the offender involved. Were you in the area? Did you see what happened?

 "If you have any information, quote crime reference 22/49361/23 and make a report online – https://www.westmercia.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/."