Sir, May 4 will be a sad date in this year’s ‘tree calendar’. A particularly fine mature Chestnut tree exists at the bottom of Betjeman Lane in Wantage. It has been enjoyed for many years by local residents and visitors alike, none more than conker collectors.

Unfortunately, the tree has been diagnosed as structurally unsafe. This is due to a combination of old age and the damage of leaf miners, resulting each year in the premature appearance of autumn.

Following his last annual inspection, Dr Giles Biddle, the arboricultural consultant, advised the park’s trustees that ‘the upper crown of the tree is suffering from increasing die-back’ coupled with ‘water soaked lesions at the base and signs of the root-decaying honey fungus. The risk of collapse is now becoming unacceptably high, particularly in a location which is subject to considerable public use.’ He recommended felling at the earliest opportunity.

There is, however, a ‘silver lining’. The ‘terminal state’ is being deferred, as the trustees have decided to pollard the tree at approximately 20 feet from the ground instead of felling it. That will enable the tree to support two new climbing plants and to provide at least some wildlife value. In the autumn a replacement tree will be planted.

We hope that readers will support the measures being taken.

Ralph Cobham Chairman Betjeman Memorial Park Wantage