A business owner has stood a tree up with packing tape after vandals are believed to have torn it down in the middle of the night.

David Mallon, who owns Porta in Bond Street, Brighton, arrived at his shop to discover the tree - planted by the North Laine Community Association - split on the sapling.

In September the tree was sawn in half by vandals - but replaced by Brighton and Hove City Council.

"It's just expected, but it should not be. This is a city so you do tend to expect that sort of thing, but not the second time around," said David.

The Argus: The snapped tree in Bond Street last yearThe snapped tree in Bond Street last year (Image: Sue Delafons)

"There's no nice greenery in this area and to have it grow to maturity would be really good, and add so much to the environment."

The business owner, who has worked in Bond Street for 18 years, used packing tape in the hope that the tree could grow back.

The Argus: Packing tape has temporarily secured the treePacking tape has temporarily secured the tree (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

He called on the council to replant the tree again, over fears it could encourage further antisocial behaviour in the area after it fell on Saturday, February 3.

The Argus understands an arboriculturalist from the council is due to visit."If you leave it then other things happen, like graffiti on walls. It's all about having a bit of pride in Bond Street."

Brighton and Hove City Council has been approached for comment.