Wroughton residents have been left devastated after a famous tree was damaged.
Locals believed contractors destroyed the so-called Chicken Tree whilst they were carrying out work on the B4005 Brimble Hill in recent days.
However, an investigation by councillor Cathy Martyn proved otherwise – with Swindon Borough Council releasing a statement to her.
In a statement, the council wrote: “The branch fell due to high winds and not as a result of the contractors.
“There was a grab lorry adjacent and the branch fell on it.
“Apparently there is a video from the lorry driver to support, and when I receive it I will share it.”
Residents have expressed their sadness on local community group, with many wrongly apportioning blame to the contractors carrying out roadworks.
One suggested the destruction of the tree be marked with an “annual chicken tree dance or something to pay our respect as a community”.
