PLANS to brighten up Bury's Brandlesholme Road with a Christmas tree have been given the chop because of vandals.

Last year, yobs virtually destroyed the tree during a spate of seasonal vandalism attacks.

Bury West Area Board has been unable to get funding to put up the tree this year.

Board chairman Councillor Bob Bibby said: "It is very unfortunate. I really believe people do appreciate a Christmas tree.

"But last year, it was virtually wrecked by vandals and we can't get any funds this time around."

Speaking at Monday night's meeting of the area board, Coun Bibby revealed that separate trees would be provided in Bolton Road and Tottington Road, Bury.