AN impressive 30ft Christmas tree has been put up in Clacton town centre after a “paltry” 15ft tree was given the chop.

The first tree was donated by the north Essex branch of the Federation of Small Businesses as the centrepiece of the town’s festive celebrations, but it was axed after just one day following complaints from shoppers and traders.

But the tree has now been replaced by one twice the size thanks to sponsorship from sea defence consultants Mott MacDonald and a further donation from the federation.

Peter Halliday, leader of Tendring Council, said the situation had been resolved swiftly and well in time for the town’s Christmas lights switch-on by panto star Jeff Brazier on December 7.

“It was kind of the FSB to donate the original tree but it was sadly not big enough for the size of the location and the type of weather it would have to withstand for more than a month – it was simply not man enough for the job,” he said.

“However, great credit to them, the FSB has come back with a further donation of £200 and Mott MacDonald has contributed a very sizeable £785 for the type of tree we normally have in Clacton.

“Christmas is truly back on in style and I thank them both for their help with this - and I am sure the people of Clacton really appreciate the gesture.”