MEMORIES have been shared after a mesmerising Stroud landmark fell victim to this week's Storm Gerrit.

The Lonely Tree has stood for hundreds of years on Rodborough Common.

Its slanting angle casted an atmospheric scene which has been an attraction for scores of photographers over the years and families who have picnicked in its shadow and swung on its branches.

The beech tree was also a popular meeting place for residents and a favourite of children and dog walkers.

Flowers were often seen in its hollows and children often hid there too.

Near the Baden-Powell copse, it probably marked an old boundary or field corner.

After the news broke this week, scores of residents and photographers took to social media to share their wonderful images over the years of the much-loved landmark.

SNJ readers have also paid tribute to what the tree meant to them.

Alison Heywood said: "Our grandchildren loved that tree and find treasures inside - how sad."

Susan Cox said: "If when were kids we wanted a meeting place on the common it was always the lonely tree."