EFFORTS to turn a 300-year-old Holywell tree into a work of community art are progressing well, it has been said.

Chainsaw carver Ian Williams, of Flint Mountain, was commissioned by Flintshire council to transform the large horse chestnut tree to the rear of Holywell Leisure Centre.

After a consultation with local schoolchildren, a decision was made to incorporate a number of designs into the remaining trunk and branches.

Work began last week and Mr Williams said he expects to have completed the carving by the end of this week.

He explained: "Everything is progressing well and the weather has been kind to us so far.

"I have managed to finish the highest elements of the carving, which involved a squirrel, an owl and two baby owls and some leaves to represent what the tree used to be; a horse chestnut.

"Once the scaffolding was lowered I started work on a windmill, which is an icon of the Holywell area.

"I am still working on the dragon, which was a popular choice among the children.

"The neck and head are finished and when it is done it will appear to be going through the tree.

"Tomorrow (Wednesday) I will be working on a woodpecker and then I'll be starting on a wood spirit's face.

"My plan is also to carve a door into the trunk, which will appear slightly open."

Speaking of the response he has received from the community, Mr Williams said: "It's been fantastic - so many people have stopped to look and ask about it and take pictures.

"The local residents can't believe it. When they look out of their houses now, it will be like a feature on their landscape.

"When the scaffolding comes down all the detail will be revealed."