REDDITCH'S controversial Christmas tree has been taken down.

The tree, based in Redditch town centre, was taken down piece by piece earlier today.

The Advertiser previously reported the illuminated tree had been criticised by some for looking 'ridiculous' and not having a trunk.

However, since reporting the initial response, readers flocked to our Facebook site to defend the festive display.

Redditch Advertiser:

Among the dozens of positive comments, Tracey Wilkes said: "I think it looks lovely. It doesn't matter what is done, people will always moan."

Samantha Mumford said: "The kids will love it."

And Mandy Walsh added: "I saw it for the first time yesterday. I thought it looked lovely, great for taking a photo with a friend or loved ones. It's about time we had something different to look at. The festival of trees is a lovely idea."

However, there were a few that disagreed still.

Redditch Blog posted: "It isn’t a Christmas tree. A tree is symbolic image of Christmas. It might look slightly better if they removed the anti-vandal barriers they are around it this morning."

And Christel McMullan said: "It's not the tree that bothers me, it's the rest of the decorations. Or lack of. Apart from around the church, there is absolutely nothing. It doesn't look festive at all. Boring. Just like Redditch these days I guess. The town has so much potential, but it's all wasted."