Swindon's Magic Roundabout's Christmas saga took a pantomime twist yesterday when a joker planted a tiny tree in the centre - days after council workers failed to put up a 49ft high version.

Sunday's attempt to put up the tree failed because the one that was delivered was taller than had been expected and it cracked the concrete base built for it.

The tree is set to be installed again today in time for an unveiling at 8pm tomorrow.

The idea for the tree came from the Swindon Strategic Economic Partnership annual conference last month, when representatives of taxi firm V-Cars said Swindon’s most famous landmark often underwhelmed visitors.

The tree is being sponsored by Capita and the 5,500 multi-coloured lights that will adorn it are being bought by V- Cars.