Alert over oak tree threat

The Forestry Commission has issued information on acute oak decline (AOD), which experts have warned could alter the British landscape more than Dutch elm disease.

Oaks show black bleeding on the trunks and stems and can suffer rapid dieback and death within three to five years. The Commission's research arm Forest Research has recently identified bacteria thought to be responsible.

It says woodland owners and managers should watch for symptoms and advise visitors and walkers not to touch infected trees or remove wood from the area, and to clean walking shoes and tyres used in infected areas before going to places which are disease-free.