Large police presence on 'Christmas lights street' in Sheffield as tree fellers move in

Around 30 police officers are at Abbeydale Park Rise in Dore today to prevent clashes between arborists and protesters angry at trees being felled as part of a city wide road improvement programme.

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Campaigners have fought to protect the trees, which are decorated with Christmas lights every year in a community event which attracts thousands of visitors over the festive season and raises money for charity.

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The trees, which have been decorated for the last 30 years, are being felled as part of Sheffield Council's 'Streets Ahead' programme, where all the city's road and pavements are being upgraded.

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Today's policing operation involves officers guarding cordons erected around trees due to be felled in a bid to prevent protesters from entering the work zones.

Sheffield Council contractor Amey has security staff on the street and all activity is being filmed by the police.