A TREE planted almost 120 years ago to commemorate the jubilee of Queen Victoria is to be felled.

The 80ft Wellingtonia tree, in Rushock, near Droitwich, is the centrepiece of the village, but is being cut down because it has died.

It will be missed by local residents, many of whom grew up with it as a trademark of the village.

"I live just by the church and can see the tree out of my window," said John Jennings.

"I have lived here all my life and it has always been there.

"My grandmother helped to plant it, so I am told, and I will miss it a lot."

Church warden Victoria Jennings added: "We are waiting for a tree surgeon to recommend a date and will need the electricity board to remove some cables.

"The tree is a part of Rushock's history and we will be sad to see it go."

A plaque next to the tree, which is in front of St Michael's C of E church, reads: "Queen Victoria's Jubilee Memorial Tree. 1887. God Save the Queen."