Campaigners fight to save one of Eastleigh's most historic trees have lost their battle this morning.
Shortly before 8.30am tree surgeons arrived at the Point to cut down a sycamore tree, named locally as Sid.
The tree was planted 72 years ago to celebrate Eastleigh becoming a borough.
It took less than three hours for two tree surgeons to hack down the much-loved tree.
Campaigner Matthew Myatt said: "It is devastating day for residents and a great loss for future generations."
Eastleigh Borough Council wanted the tree removed to allow for the extension of the Point Dance Centre.
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