Two Isleworth residents have been fined a combined £3,360 for felling a mature tree in Osterley.

An investigation was launched after Hounslow Council received notification that a tree which stood in a protected conservation area had been felled.

The pair, along with a Stanmore-based waste removal contractor, were found responsible by the Council's Planning Enforcement Team.

Appearing at Uxbridge Magistrates Court, the three parties were ordered by a judge to each pay £1,680, who determined they had caused significant harm to the community and the environment.

Outlining her punishment of fines totalling more than £5,040, the judge drew attention to the Council's climate emergency declaration and the role trees play in protecting the environment.

Reacting to the court judgement Cllor Tom Bruce said: "This case is another stark reminder to residents that the correct procedures must be followed when carrying out home improvement work on your property or when hiring contractors.

"The Council has a zero-tolerance approach to this type of crime, which harms the community and the environment. Nobody wants to be hit with an easily avoidable fine like this, especially during the cost of living crisis."

Hounslow is home to a rich urban forest with more than 383 tree species and over 124,000 trees owned and manged by the Council alone. Trees are one of the most effective ways of reducing carbon in the atmosphere, while also encouraging biodiversity and greener communities for residents to live in.

Each year, the Council plants thousands of new trees but some don't survive due to vandalism or theft. If residents see this happening, it can be reported to the Council at www.hounslow.gov.uk/report.