AN early Christmas tree decoration? A protest over washday woes? A rural art installation?

This washing machine hanging from a tree in Burnley has been raising questions on social media.

The appliance was seen hanging from a tall tree by rope more than 30ft in the air in a garden near Burnley’s Hurstwood Reservoir.

The photo was shared on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter several times.

But the whereabouts of the mysterious washer are now unknown as it has been removed from its lofty perch.