Villagers in Stirlingshire has won a long legal battle to have their neighbour's giant hedge drastically cut back.

For the last 30 years, the trees have towered over gardens in Buchlyvie, blocking out sunlight and obscuring the view.

Originally planted in 1983, the leylandii grew to 40ft within ten years, prompting villagers to launch legal action.

The owner argued the hedge was a windbreak and a habitat for nesting wildlife but residents took advantage of the 2013 High Hedge Act to finally force the council to cut it down.

On Thursday, following the legal challenge, a team of tree surgeons set to work cutting back the hedge. It will take the six-strong team three days to carry out the work.

Residents told STV News of their relief they can now spend more time in their gardens and leave lights off until the evening.