A tree with an engraved commemorative plaque to honour the birth of HRH Prince George of Cambridge has been moved to a nursery to save it from dying.

The oak tree and granite plaque, which was planted by North Herts District Council, went on display on Windmill Hill in Hitchin to mark the royal birth in July 2013.

But last week the tree was removed leaving behind the plaque which says: “This oak tree has been planted by North Hertfordshire District Councilto commemorate the birth of His Royal Highness, Prince George of Cambridge on 22 July 2013.”

Councillor Peter Burt, responsible for environmental issues at NHDC, said: “Unfortunately due to the very dry and warm summer, the tree has not done as well after being planted as we would normally expect. We have therefore removed the tree to a nursery near Stevenage for it to be cared for over the summer. We anticipate replanting the tree in late autumn this year.”