Ash dieback has been confirmed in the county of Nottinghamshire and will result in thousands of trees along a major road being felled. The fear of the disease’s presence was made in August and samples were sent to the Forestry Commission which have been tested and confirmed that the initial fears of the presence of the disease were correct.

Because of the confirmed presence of the fungus on Colwick Loop Road, near Nottingham, it could mean that over the next four to five years that up to 40,000 trees could be lost. However, the figure could be higher as this does not take into account as private land will have to checked and assessed. This includes surrounding areas which all have ash trees such as parks, cemeteries, hospitals and railways. The Colwick Loop Road has had thousands of trees and bushes planted along it to shield the view of industrial units.

It has been estimated that up to 80% of the ash trees, about 5,000, will have to go in an attempt to prevent the spread of the deadly fungus. However, in the long term more will be felled to increase the total to close to 40,000 which will have quite a considerable impact on the local environment.

The Council will shortly be asked to approve immediate work and a backlog of maintenance that could cost over half a million pounds. As well as the ash dieback it is also suspected that Dutch Elm disease has spread to the county but this has yet to be confirmed because of the backlog of maintenance it has from budget cuts.

Why not keep an eye on while you are out and about, trying out your new fleece such as the Berghaus Prism we now have available. It’s ideal for autumn and winter walks, made from a warm and durable fleece material and designed to give a snug fit and it comes equipped with two very handy zipped hand-warmer pockets.

You just might help save a few trees.