THIS sad looking mulberry tree in Poole was damaged while work was being undertaken to create a new park.

The tree, believed to be over 50 years-old, first had an underground root harmed and then outside the Dolphin Swimming Pool, fell over in strong winds.

Martin Whitchurch, greenspace development officer, Borough of Poole, said: “A root of the mulberry tree was unfortunately damaged while improvement works were being undertaken at Seldown Park.

“During the period of high winds and bad weather the tree fell over and supports were put in place to allow it to recover.

“Buds have appeared in recent weeks and the tree is showing signs of improvement. Although this is a gradual process we are hopeful it will survive,” he said.

However if it does not, a replacement will be planted.

Silk worms feed off white mulberry leaves and England was being left behind when silk became popular.

In 1681, when Charles II offered sanctuary to Protestant Huguenots being oppressed by Louis IX, refugees began to trickle across the Channel.

When in 1685 the Edict of Nantes was revoked, forcing all remaining Huguenots to convert to Catholicism or face prosecution, many more arrived.

From 1670 to 1710 between 40,000 and 50,000, many wealthy and weavers sought refuge, some settling in Poole and planting orchards of mulberry trees.

Odd trees still exist as do indications of where the trees were planted, such as Old and New Orchard in the town centre.

The work to create Seldown Park had a £200,000 budget and the aim was to extend Poole Park across Kingland Road.