Network Rail has insisted that the work it is carrying out along the Frome railway line, which has angered local residents for being too brutal, is necessary.

It told Nub News that the work was essential and added that it will continue. It also said in a statement to Nub: " The work should be completed by Thursday 13th August. These specific trees have been removed to allow access to the site and have been checked prior for any bird nests and wildlife."

The engineering work, along the line at Willow Vale, which can be seen from Rodden Meadow, has horrified locals.

The company did send out a letter to residents explaining what it was up to. In that it states: " We will be replacing the bridge supports and timbers using rail mounted cranes and will replace old, worn railway track by lifting it up, removing it, laying a new stone base and laying new track. There will be large machinery, tools and equipment on site which will be noisy and cause some disruption. "