ONE of Abergavenny's landmark trees is to be felled next week after inspectors said it was a potential danger to the public.

The large copper beech that lies within one of the towers at Abergavenny Castle has a serious fungal infection, known as ustilina.

The disease attacks the wood and is known for causing the failure of beech trees.

Local groups and societies who have a connection with the castle have been informed, as well as the Abergavenny branch of Gwent Wildlife Trust, Cadw, the official guardian of the built heritage of Wales, and the Nevill Estate, the owners of Abergavenny Museum and Castle.

Museum curator Rachel Rogers said everyone was saddened by the move.

She said: "We are keen to use some of the timber, if possible, to produce something which will serve to commemorate the tree."

The tree will be replaced, although not in the same location.

Much of the timber from the tree will be used to make items to be sold in the museum shop.