THE Christmas Tree in Barry town centre has now been replaced, after criticism aimed at its predecessor meant it was removed just a few hours after being put up.

The 40-foot high tree in King Square had been roundly mocked by members of the public due to its distinct lack of foliage, which saw a replacement erected before the weekend.

Buttrills Vale and Barry Town councillor, Ian Johnson, said: "As Wales' largest town, you would expect that Barry would have a Christmas tree designed to impress. Sadly, the original tree didn't fit the bill.

"When I crossed King Square on Thursday morning last week, the Vale council had erected a rather sad looking tree and removed it before I crossed the square again at lunchtime.

"I am surprised that nobody realised there was a problem before it was put up at full height."

A Vale council spokesman confirmed that the company supplying the tree had replaced it at no extra cost.

Vale council cabinet member for regeneration and planning, Cllr Jonathan Bird said: “The Barry town centre Christmas tree arrived on Thursday morning and once put on display was clearly not of sufficient standard. The council took the immediate step to remove the tree.”

Previous years have seen other mishaps befall the town centre's seasonal centrepiece.

In 2010, a practical joker planted a tiny artificial tree on the Square, with residents commenting that it had been chosen to reflect the economic climate.

And in 2006, vandals wrecked a metal wire tree that had been installed.