Britain's original Bramley apple tree which was dying of a fungal infection could be given a lease of life after a university stepped in to save it.

The historic tree was planted more than 200 years ago in the back garden of a cottage and is hailed as being the "mother" of all modern Bramley apples. But in July, it was feared it would be lost forever after becoming gripped by an incurable honey fungus infection. Nottingham Trent University has now stepped in to try and acquire the tree after elderly resident, Nancy Harrison, who had been its custodian, died. Horticulture boffins hope if the sale goes through they can breath new life into the ageing tree in a bid to prolong its life.