'A CHRISTMAS tree is on its way' - that is the promise that has been made after a traditional tree was replaced with a new star feature.

Worcester City Council has u-turned on the decision not to install a decorated Christmas tree on a St John's roundabout.

The giant festive decoration, between New Road and Tybridge Street, had become an annual city tradition.

But the tree was scrapped this year after becoming a relentless target for vandals.

Instead, a new star feature was installed and an existing small tree on the Bull Ring traffic was decorated with lights.

However, after this paper reported on the decision, leader of the authority Marc Bayliss said he had stepped in to make sure a tree was in place.

Worcester City Council has confirmed a Christmas tree will be there on Friday, December 10.

At the latest full meeting of the council, held at The Guildhall on Tuesday, (November 30) Councillor Udall tabled the question: "Is the leader of the council aware of the disappointment felt in St John's about the poor quality of Christmas decorations this year, especially the lack of the Christmas tree.

"Can the leader explain the reasons for the lack of Christmas spirit and if he can, even at this late stage, improve the situation?"

Councillor Marc Bayliss replied: "The Christmas decorations in St John's needs a fillip and I'd already seen that before this question came in and I'd instructed officers to look again.

"It certainly is a tradition to have that tree there and I've asked officers to look and find us a tree that we can put there, and I'm looking forward to it happening.

"We have had a series of problems - (trees) pulled down and lights being strangled, dangled across the road, so it isn't without its challenges.

"But good news for both the people of St John's and Bedwardine, a tree is on its way."

A Worcester City council spokesman added: "Worcester City Council is set to bring even more festive joy with the installation of an additional decorated Christmas tree.

"This will be in addition to the illuminations already in place on the large, permanent tree at the roundabout."