The trees around Hitchin riverside and our town centre's iconic church have been around for a very long time, lending the area a gentle, bucolic air.

Which is why, when a distinctive Weeping Willow snapped at its base and fell to the ground at around 1015am this morning (Tuesday, September 13) many in our town have been moved to comment.

Nub News understands that thankfully, there were no casualties reported, after members of the public informed Hitchin Town Rangers soon after it fell,

A Weeping Willow has fallen near to St Mary's Church. CREDIT: Hitchin Town Rangers

The prominent tree was as much a part of the fabric of the riverside at St Mary's as the swans and ducks continue to be.

Hitchin Nub News spoke to our town centre's manager Tom Hardy, who told us: "It's such a shame to see an iconic town tree fallen like this.

"The view of the church will look very different now and I hope the council will be looking to replant something in its place." 

Nub News spoke to Hitchin resident Danny Pearson, who shared his sadness at the tree falling in this week of all weeks, following Her Majesty, The Queen's death last Thursday.

"The church team have been so busy this week making the church available for people to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II," said Danny, adding: "Emotionally it has been a difficult few days for most and the fallen tree is a sad sight to see.

"It feels like Hitchin may lose an icon if it can't be saved."

While Nub News reader Vanessa Moss asked plaintively if the tree 'fell in weeping sympathy for the passing Queen.'

Hitchin Nub News understands that a tree surgeon has been called and will be at the riverside from 8am tomorrow (Wednesday) morning.

According to experts, Weeping Willows, also known by its Latin name, Salix babylonica, grows rapidly, but has a short lifespan, between 40 and 75 years.

A bystander told Hitchin Nub News: "People should stay away from the area as it could be dangerous to climb on the branches."