A protester chained himself to a tree to stop it being removed as part of a cycle path scheme.

Rick Harvey, 39, a Heathgate resident, was furious when tree surgeons took down a large silver birch to make way for part of the new Push the Pedalways cycle path.

Mr Harvey then quickly chained himself to the second tree, which was also scheduled to be chopped down.

As a result of his protest yesterday, work was abandoned and Mr Harvey has today vowed to keep up his protest.

Mr Harvey said: 'These trees mean everything to our community. They attract birds and other wildlife to the area as well as providing activity for the children.'

Mr Harvey's protest has received a warm response from neighbours, who came out on to the streets to support him, providing words of encouragement and a cup of tea. •Do you support Mr Harvey's actions? You can vote in our poll above and leave your comments below.