Council sink to new low

Using the South Yorkshire Police to arrest peaceful protesters during what amounted to a dawn raid on the street is deeply shocking.

This is compounded by the fact that an independent report was published on the council website almost simultaneously stating that seven of the eight trees should be retained. This fact highlights the breathtaking cynicism of the action.

The arrest and eight-hour detention of a 75-year-old lady in her dressing gown will go down in history as one of the most shameful acts ever committed by Sheffield City Council.

The council should take immediate action to halt the felling of any further trees pending the results of an independent investigation.

This investigation needs to be set up to look into decision making at the highest levels in Sheffield Council both on the political and officer side with recommendations for change and potential action against individuals whose decision making has led to this appalling outcome.

Toby Mallinson

Hibberd Road, S6