A PLEA by four people for a tree to be cut down has been refused - and a tree preservation order has been imposed instead.

Fearby and Healey Parish Council, at Masham, near Ripon, took up the issue after concerns had been expressed by residents about the condition of a sycamore tree near the village hall, at Fearby.

The parish council decided to call in Harrogate Borough Council's tree officer.

But to some surprise locally, the tree expert said his inspection confirmed the tree was a fine example of a single-stemmed sycamore. "It would appear that the roots of the tree are healthy and gaining access to the water and nutrients unhindered," said the officer's report, adding it was unlikely that the tree would fall.

He said the tree could last for more than 30 years.

The tree, which is prominent in the street scene at its stand-alone site, is said by the borough council to make a positive contribution to the character and appearance of the village and conservation area. And as such, has a "high amenity" value.

Four people, who expressed health and safety concerns about the tree, had asked for it to be felled.

But to protect it from the axe, a provisional tree preservation order has been made and planners are now being asked to make this permanent.