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It may not be one of the Great Trees of Britain but Kirkwall and St Ola Community councillors have recommended that the council go ahead and put a stabilising pole at Albert Street’s Big Tree — with measures to ensure youths can't climb it.

Chairman, Spencer Rosie, said the tree had to be protected or taken away, as it was no longer safe in its current state.

It was felt by some members that taking the tree away completely, or replacing it with another, would have to go out to public consultation.

After considerable discussion, members agreed that a “steadying column”, be driven adjacent to the trunk with a fastening to the tree.