Saws wage war on Dutch Elm disease

WORKMEN have cut down trees in Holyrood Park as part of a city-wide effort to halt the spread of Dutch Elm disease.

Twelve trees were felled yesterday following an annual survey carried out by the city council to assess the prevalence of the disease.

It is estimated that around 400 trees are felled in Edinburgh every year as a result of the disease.

If the disease is identified in its early stages, measures can be taken to try and stop its spread, such as removing branches.

According to the city council, any felled trees are used for timber or for composting.