A NEW world record could be on the cards for developers in Winwick if their latest project takes root and blossoms.

Countryside Properties Plc, which is putting the finishing touches to the new Winwick Park housing development, is looking to beat the existing world record for 'the largest tree to be transplanted'.

The effort is part of a compensation package which followed the demolition of Winwick Water Tower, brought toppling down at the start of last year to make way for the new development. The current record, held since 1997, involved a 100-year-old horse chestnut, which measured 16m. Countryside's effort sees a 60-year-old London plane tree, standing at 17.8m or 58 feet being transported from Belgium. It will grow to be around 150 feet tall and is expected to live for up to 250 years.

Robin Hoyles, managing director of Countryside strategic projects plc, said: "We have been told this is actually the tallest living tree ever to be transplanted anywhere in the world."

The tree arrived in the country yesterday, Wednesday. After being crane-lifted off a ferry in Hull, it was transported on a special "trombone" trailer along the M62, accompanied by a police escort, all the way to Warrington. Accompanying it on its journey was Kim Wilde '80s wild child and pop diva turned garden designer and presenter of a new gardening TV show to be aired in the spring. She will also be on hand for the grand unveiling ceremony, which is planned for next week.