A cedar tree in Cwmbran that is over 180 years-old has died and will be chopped down later this month. The 80 foot tree is in the grounds of Pontrhydyrun Baptist Church in Croesyceiliog.

Jonny Raine, the church minister, said it was one of three cedars that were brought over from Palestine in the 18th century and planted.

He said: “Despite its history and significance to our church and community it has been declared dead and needs to come down.

“Our gates have a plaque with a poem called 'The Cedars of Pontrhydyrun' dedicated to them. The other two were blown down during a storm in 1928.”

For the last few years the tree has not been in a good condition and council officers have kept an eye on it. It was declared dead and the church has booked in a contractor to start cutting on 30 September.

Keep an eye on the Cwmbran Life Facebook page closer to the date for more information as Chapel Lane may be closed during the work.