AN HISTORIC tree, whose existence was threatened by a supermarket redevelopment, will live on in several different places around Dorking.
The mulberry tree which has stood for 200 years in what is now the Waitrose car park was at risk of being destroyed when the South Street store rebuild begins next month.
As reported in the Advertiser in October 2011, Ockley resident Hannah Peschar launched a campaign to persuade the company to save the fragile tree.
Now, after months of negotiation, the 73-year-old grandmother has received confirmation that the chain will pay for the roots to be replanted at the Dorking Community Orchard at the Ranmore Road allotments.
Mrs Peschar said: "As many roots as possible will be transported anywhere we want within six miles of Dorking.
"My friend, who is a tree consultant, has tried to revive the tree; the root will be separated from the rest of the tree and he will try to start it growing again. He also has a dream of taking cuttings and planting them all over Dorking."
Andy Hunn, branch manager at Waitrose Dorking, confirmed the company was working with North Holmwood-based tree expert David Challice to ensure the safe removal and transportation of the healthier part of the tree.
He added: "The mulberry tree has been an important part of our shop since we first opened here and I'm very pleased that it'll continue to be part of Dorking's future too."
However, a substantial portion of the 20ft tree's trunk cannot be saved, and Mrs Peschar is now appealing for donations to have it turned into a piece of public art.
Mrs Peschar, who owns a sculpture garden in Standon Lane, Ockley, said: "This tree is more than 200 years old, and just to throw it on a dump would be a tragedy.
"Being an art consultant, as soon as I knew that the tree was going to be cut off, I thought an artist or wood carver could create an artwork from the remaining wood if it is of decent quality."
Mrs Peschar said internationally renowned sculptor Walter Bailey – who created 11 oak sculptures to mark the perimeter of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – or Dorking residents Dan Harvey and Heather Ackroyd would be ideal candidates.
Mrs Peschar estimated the cost of creating the sculpture at between £5,000 and £10,000.
Anyone interested in supporting or donating to Mrs Peschar's art project can e-mail info@hannahpescharsculpture.com
