DEAD, dying and diseased trees are to be removed from a tourist spot before the holiday season begins.

A major operation is being launched to improve the cliffs beneath the Esplanade, in Scarborough, over the next few weeks.

Hundreds of dead and diseased trees will be removed and many more pruned to create better views from the cliff top.

The idea is to re-invigorate the gardens from the Esplanade Hotel to the clock tower and improve the appearance.

By letting more light in, it should also encourage a resurgence of wild flora as well as improving conditions for the existing trees.

Altogether, more than 100 trees will be removed and, after pruning is carried out to prevent others spreading, there will be replanting of trees and shrubs next winter.

Signs will be put up to advise the public when footpaths are closed to allow tree felling to take place in safety.

"There have long been complaints about the trees and the conditions some of them are in, so these people in particular will appreciate what is going to be done," said local councillor Mike Nesfield.