Anger over post loss

But passers-by are furious it has been uprooted and replaced with a modern street light, which they say looks like a 'monstrosity' and is out of character with the area.

Mike Marklew, a regular at The Castle pub, noticed the column had been replaced on Saturday (26). He said: "I was having a drink, looked up and suddenly noticed it had gone. I went outside to have a look and saw it had been replaced with some modern monstrosity. It is disgusting.

"I hope this is not another sign of Harrow on the Hill changing. We have already lost a post office. We don't want the council nicking our street furniture too."

A spokeswoman from the council explained that the lamp-post would be replaced with a replica but that it would take four to six weeks.

Denise Robertson, member of Harrow Hill Trust, is confident the council will keep to its word. She said: "The same thing happened in Byron Road recently and the post was replaced pretty soon.

"If an old lamp-post disappeared on the hill we would know about it and we would be on the phone to the council straight away. Fingers crossed the council will have it replaced within the next month or so."

Councillor Susan Hall, responsible for Environmental Services, said: "Unfortunately a lamp was damaged in a car accident and we are in the process of replacing it.

"It will be replaced with the same style of lamp to make sure it is in keeping with the rest of the lighting on the street. To do this we have had to order a new specialist lighting column and lantern and therefore anticipate to complete this work in the next four to six weeks.

"Along with the residents we are keen to preserve the heritage of the borough as best as we can which is why we are dedicated in keeping this piece of history alive."