Barnet Borough Council has apologised after planting a tree in front of an 81-year-old's driveway in Hendon.

Stanley Ellis told the Times Series he was "bewildered" when he noticed the sapling had been planted in front of the dropped kerb outside his home in Crespigny Road.

The tree, between the pensioner's drive and that of his neighbour, is currently only a few centimeters across, but Mr Ellis fears it could become a major obstacle.

Mr Ellis's said: "I wasn't  consulted about it - they just arbitrarily planted it. It's a young tree with a large wooden post about a foot either side, and there's wire mesh around that.

"It's already causing me a great difficulty to get in and out of my driveway. I have to pull hard one way and hard the other just to get out of my drive. What's worrying is the tree will be growing and getting bigger and bigger."

Mr Stanley had attempted to speak to contractors as they planted the tree outside his home.

He said: "I asked the workmen why they'd planted it there and they said something about it being good for the environment and the atmosphere.

"I just want them to move it further down the road where it won't be obstructing anyone."

Following an enquiry from the Times Series, a Barnet Borough Council spokesman said they were sending a "team" to look at the tree and speak to Mr Stanley.

After the visit, the council spokesman said: "Our teams will be replanting the tree within the coming week. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused."