VALIANT campaigners have spoken of their sadness and regret after a much-loved, 100-year-old oak tree was axed by developers following a fight to save it. 

Protesters have been living in the tree - fondly called Cecelia - since October.

They aimed to block Bloor Homes’ plan to cut it down ahead of a 662-home development in Ashingdon Road, Rochford. 

The developers insisted the tree must be removed in order for a new road layout to be created.

READ MORE >> Part of Southend High Street shut off as trapped seagull sparks rescue mission

However, campaigners insisted it was dangerous and demanded action to have the tree protected. 

After a legal dispute, the campaigners were ordered to vacate the tree last week so work could begin. 

Yesterday, in the early hours of the morning, the tree was finally felled by the developers, despite one final “peaceful protest”. 

A spokesman for the Save Holt Farm Oak Tree campaigners said: “We may be losing our beautiful Cecelia, but without her, we would never have found each other.

“She brought us tighter, her community, her protectors, friendships and memories that will last forever.”

Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, also shared his disappointment.

He said: “I am deeply disappointed that Bloor Homes has chopped down the Holt Farm Oak Tree.” 

“Having raised this issue both in Parliament and with the CEO of Bloor Homes directly- for which I have not even had the basic courtesy of a reply. 

“This whole saga is sadly totally characteristic of Bloor Homes’ arrogant, and tin-earned behaviour.  

“Is it any wonder that so many property developers get a bad name when you witness the high-handed attitude of companies like Bloor Homes?”

In response to the removal of the tree, a spokesman from Bloor Homes added: “Our current works will continue on Ashingdon Road until Wednesday after which we will start work on service diversions and the new road junction in due course. 

“The new road junction includes enhancements such as extra railings and an upgraded Toucan crossing. 

“The new development will provide much needed new homes, 35 per cent of which will be affordable homes for local people.

“The compensation and mitigation already paid to Rochford District Council for the loss of the tree has been provided for the planting, care and management of many more trees, and is part of the overall £12 million Section 106 contributions which will support and enhance local infrastructure, education, medical provision and transport in Rochford.”