STOCKTON-on-the-Forest has expanded by one tree.
But this suspiciously upright specimen did not sprout from seed and gradually reach for the skyline.
It was dropped from a great height by workers concealing a mobile phone mast.
We are sorry to tell them that this artificial arborescence is fooling no one. We have seen Hollywood actors who are more wooden.
But we may yet be proved wrong. If a woodpecker prangs its beak on the "tree" or it becomes a favoured canine loo (for the dogs' sake, we hope it is earthed and waterproofed), the authorities have not dropped a clanger.
Updated: 10:47 Thursday, February 27, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article