Following several reports in the national press we thought we had better drop you all a quick line on our interpretation of the significance of this disease and what it means for you.

• It will not make your trees imminently dangerous.
• The disease causes leaf loss & crown dieback and MAY lead to tree death.
• It is spread by wind blown spores.
• It is unlikely to spread during winter.
• It is mostly specific to common Ash (Fraxinus excelsior).
• There is no evidence that it can be spread to tree species other than Ash or that it is harmful to the health of people or animals.

My understanding is that there isn't anything 'we' can do at the moment, particularly as the symptoms will only be evident and visable in the summer when the tree is in leaf.

Please get in touch if you are worried and would like any further help or advice. For more information on this please see The Forestry Commission's website.

Bees not only pollinate a lot of the food that we eat, they also ensure the future generations of all kinds of plants, which in turn, support other species. Some trees are not able to self pollinate, some are pollinated by wind but others have to rely on bees. For example Chestnuts, many Fruit trees, Nut trees and Cotoneasters to name a few. Remember, trees are the lungs of the earth so bees help us breathe too.

Ivy is disliked by some people, but it is one of the few plants for bees that aid survival for late foragers. The pollination of Ivy then allows berries to develop, thus feeding lots of birds over the winter months as well as providing them with an excellent shelter.

Trees with Ivy growing up them definitely accommodate more wildlife than those without. Most healthy trees can withstand Ivy growth, it can make it difficult to inspect trees, but if in doubt give us a call and we will pop by and check them for you. We are always happy to give free consultations and advice. For more information on bees see www.buzzaboutbees.net.