AROUND 50 trees lining a cemetery along an approach into Taunton are to undergo surgery to prolong their lives.

The work is being carried out on the trees in St Mary's Old Cemetery, on Wellington Road as they begin to show their age.

Among the specimens are one of the best collections of mature Cedars of Lebanon in Somerset, with some believed to be more than 200 years old.

But they need specialist attention to remove dead wood and overhanging branches that could present a risk to passers by.

Some will be fitted with expandable cable braces to help them withstand high winds.

The initial, priority work is being carried out by Taunton Deane Council's DLO, while a second phase will take place later on.

Only one tree - a Lawson Cypress - is earmarked for felling in the first phase.

A Deane spokeswoman said: "These trees add ambience and are of major environmental value to St Mary's Old Cemetery.

"We believe that some are up to 200 years old - we want to protect them as much as we can.

"We will also be planting new trees to provide the next generation of cedars for the cemetery - they are, after all, a landmark in Taunton."