Ash dieback arrives in Somerset (From This is The West Country)

Ash dieback arrives in Somerset

11:57am Tuesday 27th November 2012 in Somerset

SOMERSET County Council is asking everyone to be vigilant, following the first case of ash tree Chalara dieback found in Somerset.

A webpage has been created on www.somerset.gov.uk concerning the disease, giving advice about spotting symptoms and restricting its spread.

The county council has inspected the small number of ash trees planted on highway land in the last five years, but no symptoms were found in any.

The council is monitoring development of the disease and will follow the Government’s advice.

It is recommended that ash trees in your care are examined, especially those planted in the last five years.

However, there are other causes of ash dieback, so be sure to check the symptoms before reporting it.

If you suspect Chalara ash dieback you can contact the Forestry Commission Chalara helpline on 08459-335577.