Redundant tree guards that were meant to herald a leafy quayside could be pressed into action on a village green.

Five years ago, after trying several varieties and even changing the soil, Great Yarmouth Borough Council gave up on its dream of a tree-lined South Quay, finally digging up their failed efforts.

Now Ormesby with Scratby Parish Council is suggesting it could make use of the guards as it looks to replace at least four trees that were diseased.

Chairman Adrian Peck said four trees had been lost recently with scattered stumps showing evidence that there were even more before.

He suggested up to ten could be replanted and sponsored by local people as part of the community’s effort to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War.

Geoff Freeman said a good, mature tree from a specialist tree merchant would cost around £250.

He said there were plenty of tree guards along South Quay from when the borough council tried to plant trees there.

“They sit there like dead dinosaur’s he said. “And they were the Rolls Royce of tree guards. We need to go to them and say ‘Can we have some of your tree guards?.”

Jim Shrimplin said he was concerned about too many trees encroaching on the open space, saying four would be more appropriate.

Members’ also heard that the village war memorial had been taken under the wing of Heritage England.

Andrew Eagle reported that as part of a national audit Ormesby’s “lovely cross” would receive special protection.

The status would mean help with cleaning and restoration as well as protection against unsympathetic advertising nearby.

Overall he said it would “guarantee the life of our memorial.”

Meanwhile members said they were disappointed they would no longer receive parish-level crime statistics from the police.

Monday’s meeting was also the annual meeting which was attended by nine members of the public.