MOURNERS have praised the sensitivity of workers for carving a delicate angel from the remains of a tree in a Poole cemetery.

The impromptu carving was carried out amid the tranquil setting of Elgin Road’s Parkstone Cemetery.

Borough of Poole contractors, who also carved a toadstool from a stump in nearby Canford Cliffs Avenue, had been working to remove a tree that had died.

However, rather than simply leave an ugly stump it was decided to shape the remains into something in keeping with the spiritual surroundings.

One resident, who was tending a grave at the site but asked to remain unnamed, told the Daily Echo: “I think it is a really lovely touch and people will appreciate it greatly.

“It is nice that someone has thought about the people who will be attending the cemetery and it looks nicer than if the tree was just taken away.

“I gather the tree had to go as it could have fallen in a gale and injured someone.”

Borough of Poole senior arboricultural officer Andy Osborne said the tree had died as it was “heavily suppressed” by other trees nearby.

He explained: “It wasn’t possible to access the stump properly to grind it out as it was adjacent to a grave space and on a slope.

“Rather than leave the remains of the tree, our contractors felt it was appropriate to tidy them up, as is normal.

“And due to the location, the angel was chosen.

“We are pleased local residents appreciate the design.”