The possibility the National Trust could save Abbey Road recording studios for the nation was raised after reports that embattled music group EMI planned to sell it.

The Trust said members of the public had been in touch to urge the organisation to take on the property after the issue was discussed on Chris Evans' show on BBC Radio 2 and on BBC Radio Five Live.

People have also been discussing whether the National Trust could save the world-famous studios on Facebook and Twitter.

EMI's private equity parent Terra Firma is said to be hoping the north London site - made famous by the Beatles album and zebra crossing cover shot - could raise tens of millions of pounds.

A spokesman for the National Trust said: "It's not often that the public spontaneously suggests that we should acquire a famous building.

"However, Abbey Road recording studios appear to be very dear to the nation's heart - to the extent that we will take soundings as to whether a campaign is desirable or even feasible."

The building in St John's Wood could have a price tag of £10 million to £30 million, and the National Trust is asking the public whether they think the studios should be saved.

If there is enough momentum, a campaign could be launched to buy the studios on behalf of the nation.

Former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney, who recorded most of the band's songs at Abbey Road, has told the BBC's Newsnight that he hoped the studios could be saved.

He said: "There are a few people who have been associated with the studio for a long time who were talking about mounting some bid to save it.

"I sympathise with them. I hope they can do something, it'd be great."

He added: "I have got so many memories there with the Beatles.

"It still is a great studio. So it would be lovely if somebody could get a thing together to save it."

The National Trust already owns Mendips and 20 Forthlin Road, the childhood homes of John Lennon and Sir Paul McCartney in Liverpool.