YP Letters: Why park cherry trees should not be felled

RE the five flowering cherries in Wellholme Park marked for felling.

I was interested to read Calderdale Council’s response to my recent letter.

Following a recent inspection from one of our qualified forestry officers, their spokesman says: “The trees are showing signs of serious decay.”

He also says there is no imminent danger but the trees must be destroyed for “safety reasons”.

I am sorry but I disagree on both counts; I have checked the trees again with two colleagues and we all agree that the trees are sound and sturdy and at no risk to the public particularly as they are checked annually.

These trees have given pleasure to the people of Brighouse and our visitors for decades, and should do so for decades to come.

I am sure that Calderdale Council’s forestry officers are qualified, but I, too, have qualifications: I trained at the world famous Hilliers tree and shrub nurseries in Winchester, going on to run my own business to this day. I am a Fellow of the Royal Horticultural Society and act as an expert witness.

As an expert witness or not, I could not in all conscience consider recommending the destruction of these trees.