WORCESTERSHIRE residents are being urged to be a little more imaginative when buying their loved ones a gift this Valentine's Day.

The County Council's Countryside Service is selling local varieties of fruit trees.

"The idea is that people can buy a gift that will continue to grow and will not wilt like flowers do," said Wade Muggleton, senior countryside officer.

"Each tree is local to Worcestershire, making them even more fitting for county lovers.

"The trees have previously proved very successful and are not available from most nurseries or garden centres."

The trees are grown especially for Worcestershire County Council at Avonbank Nursery, Pershore College and are available until Monday, February 28.

There are 10 varieties of one-year-old saplings, including five apples, two pears, two plums and a cherry tree.

They cost £15 and can be bought by contacting the Countryside Service on 01905 766491.