A 5ft Christmas tree planted outside a new set of assisted living flats has been stolen just two weeks after it was put in place.

Rapport Housing donated the tree to those living in Lawson House, in Martin Square, Larkfield, and it was planted during a ceremony on October 17.

The callous thieves struck over the weekend and pinched the new tree leaving those living in the area searching for a replacement.

Jackie Hirsch, chairman of the Larkfield Community Group, said: "At the weekend I got a message saying the tree had disappeared.

"It looks like it has been dug up so I assume someone thought it would look nice in their house.

"I posted about it on Facebook and there have been a lot of people who have got in touch with me saying they will help."

Since Jackie took to social media people have come forward offering donations in an attempt to replace the stolen tree.

She helped set up the initial planting and said she is upset after seeing the area become the victim of crime.

Jackie said: "When Rapport Housing were building the flats I thought it would be nice if they could buy us a tree to plant in Martin Square so that every year we have a Christmas tree with lights on.

"I got in touch with the manager of Paydens who does the lights each year and Rapport Housing were very kind. Their chief executive said he would help plant it and organise a ceremony.

"We got given a tree and it was 5ft because we wanted it to root and grow. We were going to put a cage around it but we were told it might encourage vandalism so we decided not to."

Kind-hearted Larkfield residents have since offered their own trees and cash as they look to give those living in Lawson House a Christmas tree in time for December.

Jackie added: "One person said we could have a tree from their garden and another person said they would donate £200 towards a new tree.

"I was really overcome by it and Rapport Housing are looking at getting another tree and maybe a bigger one. This time we might put a cage around it."

A spokesman for Rapport Housing said: “We are delighted to be part of the Larkfield community again, following the opening of our extra care housing scheme, Lawson House this summer. To mark our return, we planted the tree alongside the Larkfield Community Group ahead of the festive celebrations. It was disappointing to see that the tree was stolen and we are currently discussing options to replace and protect the tree.”