AN elderly couple from Droitwich have finally given a hazardous tree the axe after it blighted their lives for more than two years.

In the autumn, leaves and berries fall from the 17ft tree in the back garden of Joan and Leonard Brown's Steynor Close home, leaving the ground slippery. Mr Brown, who is in a wheelchair, has skidded and fallen three times.

But calls for help to local authorities, including the Spa Housing Association, which owns the small bungalow where the Brown's live, have fallen on deaf ears for the last 24 months.

It was only after the couple pleaded for help through the Press that the ordeal come to an end.

Local tree surgeon Adam Matthews, of APM Tree, was due to cut down the tree yesterday afternoon.

"We are absolutely delighted that Mr Matthews could help," said 62-year-old Mrs Brown.

"Now we can get on with our lives."