A SICK mulberry tree planted in a Worcester suburb by the composer Edward Elgar almost 80 years ago is set to be saved.

The tree, in Arundel Drive, Battenhall, has been in a poor state for some time.

It has a major split following a lightning strike and is now being held together by a steel rod. It also has a fungal infection.

But damage was also caused when unauthorised work was carried out, even though it is protected by a tree preservation order.

Peter Yates, the principal planning officer at the city council, said under normal circumstances a tree in such a state would be felled.

However, because of the association with Elgar it will be saved.

"The long-term plan is to take a cutting from the tree and use that to clone a replacement tree,'' said Mr Yates.

"So hopefully in the future we will end up with a new, healthier tree than the one that is there now."

Mr Yates added that it was unlikely that those responsible for damaging the tree would face prosecution.

"The tree was in such a poor condition that sooner or later it was going to have to have work done to it," he said.

However, Arundel Drive resident David Simms said the tree, which was planted in 1928, should be left alone because he believes it will survive.

"The tree was growing perfectly at the end of last year. The shoots were 10ft high with beautiful leaves. It does produce beautiful foliage," said the 64-year-old retired headteacher.

"It does look old and gnarled and haggard but you can see two shoots coming out of the side.

"The tree is part of our heritage and history and there is precious little left of Elgar."