I READ with dismay that another 18 trees, if not more, are to be felled in the Castle grounds in Clitheroe. (LET, May 23).

Never, to the best of my knowledge, has the Garden History Society been mentioned in previous newspaper reports.

I hope that the Clitheroe Town Council, along with S.T.O.M.P, ('Save the Trees on the Mound Please,') will be meeting this organisation to see what they have to say.

The Engineering Manager Graham Jagger, as stated in his recent report to the community committee of Ribble Valley Council, he is now considering this organisation, as worthy advisers.

Why, then, were they never involved in the last debacle?

I hope the Clitheroe Town Council along with S.T.O.M.P will see a more detailed report on each tree, as opposed to the small amount of information given to councillors, some of whom quite rightly voiced their concern.

Why is Mr Jagger stating to councillors that these areas are too dangerous to visit?

I recently went around the areas in question and no trees have been roped off!

If these trees are dangerous and in such a condition, why have they been allowed to get into such a state?

The Royal British Legion was not consulted regarding the felling of so many trees last time. The Park was dedicated to the memory of those who fell in the Great War. Surely, they should be consulted prior to more felling.

I would request that the local councillors seriously take a long look at these trees in question and, in addition, ask what future plans are there to destroy even more trees?

Why has no official statement been issued about the new trees to replace the last batch that was felled?

I can appreciate that justifiable improvements have to be made and that safety is paramount, but please consult the people who are interested in preserving nature and the environment and, most of all, the local population.

If local councillors are not kept informed properly what chance is there for other people?

I just wonder if the people of Clitheroe and surrounding area know exactly what is intended for the Castle grounds for, at this rate, not many trees will survive.

If, as seems highly likely, certain trees have to be felled, can some of them not be preserved by way of making a sculpture or a feature of them as is presently taking place in Padiham?

As I am a member of S.T.O.M.P, I am, of course, biased in wanting to see our environment saved, but then again, we do represent trees that are unable to defend themselves!

M DIACK, Alexandra Road, Blackburn.