Bored of the same old box of chocolates and tired roses? Then give your loved one something different this Valentine's Day

Have you had enough of giving the special person in your life the same old presents on Valentine's Day? Then this year why not buy them a Fruit Tree and help protect Worcestershire's dwindling orchards?

It's thought that around 85 per cent of Worcestershire's famous orchards have been lost over the last 50 years. To tackle this problem Worcestershire County Council's Countryside Service team manage the Fruit Trees scheme that offers residents the chance to purchase Apple, Pear and Plum trees.

So, whereas flowers wilt and end up in the bin a fruit tree will blossom for many years to come and with spring just around the corner it's the perfect time to get involved.

There are 5 varieties of apple tree's available including the popular Worcester Pearmain, Pitmaston Russett, Hope Cottage Seedling, Edward VII and Colwall Quoining all priced at £14.00 each. 2 plum varieties which are the ever so popular Yellow and Purple Pershore at £15.50 each. Pear trees this year are The famous Worcester Black Pear and Pitmaston Duchess priced at £16.25 each.  Trees are available until 16^th March 2012.

To purchase a tree simply visit http://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/cms/environment-and-planning/countryside/countryside-service-news.aspx, email communitygreenspace@worcestershire.gov.uk or call the Worcestershire Hub on 01905 766493. Anyone with any questions at all about fruit trees can speak with one of the Community Greenspace Team by calling the Worcestershire Hub.

Joanne Taylor, County Council Community Greenspace Officer, said: "There'll be thousands of people across Worcestershire thinking about what to get for that special person in their lives with Valentine's Day fast approaching. Buying someone a fruit tree will mean this year's gift will continue to grow and help protect our heritage rather than ending up in the bin after a few days.

"This time of the year is perfect for planting so why not give something a little bit different?"

All the trees are specially grown on behalf of the County Council by Walcot Organic Nursery, in Drakes Broughton.