There are three main symptoms to look for:

            1. Lesions: Look for dark scars on bark around the base of side shoots, typically diamond shaped. Then purplish or brown streaking of the tree stem.

            2. Leaves: Withered, drooping, blackened leaves hanging limply on discoloured, brownish stems – not to be confused with ash ‘keys’; the winged seed pods dropped by trees in autumn.

            3. Crown: Topmost branches become bare, creating a ragged or bald crown at the apex of the tree.

 

If you suspect any cases they should email the Forestry Commission at [email protected] or phone 08459 335577. The number for cases in Scotland is 0131 314 6156.