A FALLEN tree has become a work of art at a nature reserve.

The sculpture depicting the wildlife that can be found there has been created at Hocombe Mead reserve at Chandler’s Ford.

A resident suggested that a sculpture be carved from the trunk of an oak tree that came down in a storm last winter.

So after the tree was cleared up and made safe by the council it invited tenders and designs for the project from professional chainsaw sculptors.

The result is a carved feature and seat by Paul Sivell, of the Isle of Wight, from Arbutus Wood Sculpture and Tree Carving and features wildlife including roe deer, rabbits, butterflies, plants and insects.

It will be sited at the centre of the reserve.

Local people were able to watch Paul’s progress throughout the week-long task.

The work was funded by Eastleigh Borough Council through the Chandler’s Ford & Hiltingbury Local Area Committee.