IT was a tall order but, sadly, one of the biggest trees in Basingstoke had to be cut down to size.

The 180-year-old sequoia tree, in Ferguson Close, Cranbourne, measuring 28 metres at its height, was thought to be one of Basingstoke’s oldest trees.

Concerns were raised by forest craftsman Tim Horrobin about the safety of the tree, which was located just five metres away from the owner’s home.

After showing officers at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council pictures of the tree, which had a protection order placed on it, it was agreed that the tree would have to face the chop.

Mr Horrobin led the team that took down the tree in a three-day project.

He told The Gazette: “It is a shame the tree had to come down but the neighbours are safe now. Everybody loves the tree but their safety is paramount, and the tree has out-grown its purpose.”