A man has been arrested on suspicion of chopping down dozens of healthy trees with a chainsaw in Walton-on-Thames in recent weeks.

On Friday (April 23), Surrey Police announced they had arrested a 24-year-old man in connection with the spate of rogue tree fellings that have left residents perplexed, concerned and angry.

In a statement published Friday morning, a spokesperson for Surrey Police praised the "fantastic" response from residents to the case and said the man, a 24-year-old from Weybridge, was arrested after a search of his car and home address uncovered chainsaws and wood chippings.

"A 24-year-old man from Weybridge has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and going equipped after around 35 have been cut down across Elmbridge and parts of Spelthorne over the course of a month," the police statement read.

"Surrey Police received a fantastic response from residents who contacted us with information, allowing investigating officers to identify a vehicle they believed to be connected.

"Last night (22 April), this vehicle was stopped. Searches carried out in the suspect’s car and home address found several chainsaws and wood chippings.

"The man was arrested and remains in custody," it continued.

READ MORE: Mystery vandal destroys trees in 'chainsaw massacre'

The case, which made headlines nationally in the UK, was launched over a month ago, on March 21, when residents reported a number of trees cut down overnight.

Inspector Bert Dean, Borough Commander for Elmbridge said: "This is an encouraging development in this investigation. We continue to piece together the evidence we have.

"Thank you again to the local community for their ongoing patience and support."

This story originally appeared in the Surrey Comet.

Forestry Journal remains dedicated to bringing you all the latest news and views from across our industry, plus up-to-date information on the impacts of COVID-19.

Please support us by subscribing to our print edition, delivered direct to your door, from as little at £75 for 1 year – or consider a digital subscription from just £1 for 3 months.

To arrange, follow this link: https://www.forestryjournal.co.uk/subscribe/

Thanks – and stay safe.