The City of Ely Council has replaced what residents described as its "absolutely shocking" Christmas tree.

Ely residents were left stunned when the bauble-less tree, which has been described as "sparse", appeared in Market Place last week.

Posting on a Facebook community group locals said the tree looked "half dead", branding it "disease ridden". 

One user wrote: "That looks quite sparse and poorly, did it come from Ely dump?"

Angry residents showed their displeasure at the decoration, which sits in the middle of Market Place, by uploading pictures of "withered" branches.

Speaking on November 21, chairman of Ely City Council, Cllr Chris Phillips, said the council was "working closely" with its Christmas tree supplier to "resolve the issues" as soon as possible.

He confirmed the "tree would be decorated very shortly" and encouraged members of the public to put themselves forward to decorate the display. 

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A spokesperson for the City of Ely Council confirmed that the tree has since been replaced. 

They told the Ely Standard: "The tree was not up to usual standard and while it had been hoped that the damaged areas could be hidden with decorations, this couldn't be achieved.

"So, the company has kindly delivered another one which was put up this morning (November 25)."

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