How you can help
LOOK out for dead branch tips, which might be discoloured or could have clumps of “pom-pom”-like living leaves around the dead area.
Councillor Pain added: “Safety is a priority, but felling the tree should not be the first option, particularly as some ash trees are known to show resistance to ash dieback, and we have been part of a national effort to secure genetic material from these trees to try to ensure the future of the species.
“It is important to remember that ash is one of our most common native trees and is incredibly valuable for wildlife. We would stress that you shouldn’t fell any trees unless you have to.
“In many cases it may be possible to reduce the risk by pruning branches.
“Always check trees for active bird nests or bat breeding or roosting sites, or other special species, well before undertaking any work.
“People should also be aware that, with certain exemptions, all trees in Britain are protected by the Forestry Act, which means that a felling licence
is required to remove them. Tree owners should be clear that their tree is in an exempted category, which includes trees in gardens, or obtain a licence before any felling.”
Earlier this year, over 100 trees were condemned in Leicester’s Western Park after they became infected with phytophthora - microscopic, funguslike organisms which rot the roots. Five ash trees in the park were also marked to be felled after they contracted ash dieback.
The city council had branded the decision ‘heartbreaking’, but necessary to protect the remaining 10,000 trees in the park.