HARINGEY'S "oldest" tree will undergo work to ensure its preservation.

The 500-year-old oak tree in Bruce Castle Park will get a series of treatments to fix structural defects and better soil so residents can continue to enjoy its leafy presence.

Councillor Dhiren Basu, cabinet member for leisure, culture and lifelong learning, said: "The Bruce Castle Park oak is a significant natural landmark in the borough and any work we can undertake to ensure that this piece of history is preserved is vital.

"This could be the oldest tree in Haringey, so we will continue to monitor the tree to ensure that our works are effective."

Under the plans the overall size of the tree will be cut down and carefully pruned at five-years intervals over the next 30 years.

The tree was found to be in trouble after a survey was carried out in December 2008.

Works to improve the soil beneath the tree will start in early May.