A TREE that lent its name to an annual Barry music event has fallen victim to the stormy weather that has ravaged the Vale.

The Blue Atlantic Cedar at The Knap Lake and Gardens was believed to be about 40 to 50 years of age and it around 30 feet high – until Storm Aileen brought it down sometime during the night of Monday, September 11..

The high winds caused it to snap and the fallen part was cut up and cleared up by Vale Parks on Tuesday afternoon (September 12).

The tree was identified and dedicated by local community art project Art4U Wales, based in Canon Street, Barry, with Glyn Pooley being the sponsor of the idea.

Vale council parks and open spaces officer, Jon Greatrex said A ‘Tree of Friendship’ had been established at the beauty spot in May 2010.

He said: “Since that date it has been embraced by residents and visitors alike. Many people have added a contribution to the tree and receive great comfort by its presence. Every summer a concert is arranged in the park to celebrate the idea behind the tree – ‘The Friendship Tree Festival’. Hundreds of people gather to celebrate nature, the park and community. The tree promotes health and well-being in a gentle nurturing setting.

“The idea is that people can add small pieces of art, notes, ribbons and wishes of friendship and peace to the tree as they wish, and that the tree and the community around it grow together in peace and friendship.”

He added: “Unfortunately the remaining part of the tree will have to be removed, as although it is safe for the moment, further high winds would probably make it unsafe.

“I am hoping that part of the base may be able to be carved into a small piece of art, and obviously we will be replanting and dedicating a new tree in the very near future.”

Mr Greatrex said his parks team would be working closely with Mr Pooley and the Knap community to ensure the Tree of Peace and Friendship continued to be part of the Knap Gardens.

They also hope to identify and then dedicate more trees of peace and friendship in the Vale’s parks over the coming years.

Barry cemetery, also suffered storm damage, with a Beech tree one of the casualties.

Barry Town Council invited residents to take the logs made from the fallen tree.

A Vale council spokeswoman also said its teams were working hard to clear all damage caused by the storms.

She said: “Much of this work relates to fallen trees. Eleven fallen trees have been reported so far. Most have been removed and all surrounding areas have been made safe.”