Hundreds turn out to save 26 trees from axe in Coventry

More than 900 people formed a chain in a bid to save 26 trees from being cut down to make way for a cycleway in Coventry.

Campaigners were hoping to break a largest group tree hug record set in Cheshire. They needed 703 people but 925 joined the chain.

Organisers told BBC CWR they were "absolutely stunned" by the turnout and had wanted to create a visible demonstration of how they felt about the "beautiful" trees.

The trees on Clifford Bridge Road will be removed to make way for a cycleway. The city council said they would be replaced by 32 saplings which would provide "greater long-term benefits".

However, residents want the plans to be redesigned or a "less destructive" route found.

More than 4,200 people have signed a council e-petition calling for it to save the trees which they say provide habitats for wildlife.

Martina Irwin, co-organiser of Saturday's tree hug, said: "We think that they're making decisions and not consulting appropriately with communities. They are not listening to us."

Pru Porretta, who has acted as the city's official Lady Godiva for more than 40 years, told Radio CWR why she was there.

"Lady Godiva from 1,000 years ago walked in the Forest of Arden and all of Coventry would have been covered in these beautiful trees," she said.

"How gorgeous to see trees still here as I walk."

Among protesters, was also 11-year-old Reuben, who wrote to Sir David Attenborough and the King about his concerns over the trees.