A WIRRAL town centre Christmas tree that was described as a “cross between scaffolding and a 70s disco kit” has disappeared.

The tree on Grange Road in Birkenhead has been removed after it was damaged by vandals who police say then made off on a motorbike.

It was part of festive decorations put up by the Wirral Chamber of Commerce and Birkenhead Business Improvement District (BID), but has been branded an “eyesore”.

On Monday, it was revealed that the feature, which was protected by metal barriers, was vandalised at the weekend and subsequently removed by the BID. It’s not yet known whether it will be replaced.

A police spokeswoman said officers were aware of a report of antisocial behaviour following two men reportedly damaging the metal tree on Grange Road.

According to the force, the incident was reported shortly before 1.30am on Saturday. She added: “Police attended where the two men, wearing dark clothing and helmets, made off on a motorbike.

“Officers are currently undertaking CCTV and forensic analysis to identify the riders of the bike and urge anyone with information to please get in touch by direct messaging our social media desk @MerPolCC.”

It comes after the tree was roundly criticised, with a nearby shopkeeper calling it “very ugly – an eyesore”.

Another added that it “wasn’t the best looking feature for visitors to Birkenhead”.

Birkenhead resident Emma Stevens said: “The town deserved better than that. It’s sad to hear what might have happened, but at least it’s gone now.”

Wirral Conservatives group leader said the tree was “not exactly [his] idea of Christmas”.

He added: “It looks like a cross between some scaffolding and a 70s disco kit.

“Perhaps next year, there could be some consultation first with those who work, live and shop there.

“Other parts of the borough have managed it – Moreton, Hoylake and Wallasey Village are great examples of the traders and residents working together to put on some really impressive displays.”

Responding to criticism of the tree, a spokesman for the BID said they were “obviously disappointed” to hear negative comments, but added: “We have tried through the Birkenhead BID to build a positive Christmas campaign taking in a number of activities on a month long period which will drive extra footfall and visitors to the town centre offer.

“We received many positive comments expressing thanks for the work Birkenhead BID has carried out in bringing this back to the town centre.”

Organisations in the town centre said the BID had done a “fantastic” job in driving footfall and visitors to the town centre with this year’s display and festive events.

Speaking about the tree, a statement from local shop Kitstop Models and Hobbies said: “Great job done by all. Looks fantastic. Let’s make Birkenhead the place to visit. Keep up the good work.”

McDonald’s franchisee Paul Griffiths said: “After several years of poor Christmas ambience in Birkenhead, it’s really encouraging that the Birkenhead BID, Wirral Chamber of Trade and council have started to make a difference to the ambience on the high street.

“The new lights and kiosks are just the start and will be gradually improving year on year now that BID funding is in place.”

Cllr Jean Stapleton, who is a member of BID steering group, said: “This programme of events and supporting campaign for our local business plays a significant part to the development of the town centre.

“It’s the first time in a number of years that we have seen this level of activity in the town and hopefully this is the start of things to come.

“Our main objective has to be getting people back into the town centre to help support our local businesses.”