Danger - falling pears

Council officials in Worcester have put up signs warning people of falling pears.

Two pear trees have been cordoned off in case their fruit falls on people at Cripplegate Park, St John's.

Signs have been screwed into each tree saying: "Warning, pears falling!"

The 30ft trees have stood in a city park for 50 years without any problems.

Officials acted after receiving a complaint the trees are a health hazard. The council fears it could be sued if anyone is injured by a pear.

The trees produce large black pears that weigh about 1lb each, reports The Sun.

Local man Barry Cox, 40, said: "This is a crazy waste of time and money. It seems people aren't credited with common sense any more. Next thing they will be issuing people with hard hats before they enter the park."

The council's parks and cemeteries manager Ian Yates said: "There are some sizeable pears and not everyone is going to be passing thinking a pear might fall on them, especially children.

"These signs divert people away from the danger. This is a lot cheaper than having a no-win, no-fee solicitor taking us to court."