It was with much interest I read the letter from Mrs Read, Ashton Street, Trowbridge, re oak tree planting in the park.

A few months ago and enjoying a walk through our lovely park I noticed council workmen removing trees and shrubs from the area mentioned in the letter.

I enquired the reason for this and was informed by a council employee that due to drunkenness and areas being used as toilets and prostitute activity, it was decided by the council that in the interest of public safety etc various parts and areas of the park were to be cleared.

After hearing this explanation and recalling reported attacks in the park, I commended the council on an excellent decision to safeguard the public. The authority regarding planting should be in the control of the council and while the friends of the park do an excellent job, it is not in their remit to make these decisions.

I would mention that the planting of oak trees brings many problems including the roots destroying property etc.

In conclusion my thanks, as a Trowbridge-born resident of 60 years, to the wonderful, colourful display of flowers in the beds, the best I have ever witnessed which has given me and I am sure many others so much pleasure and enjoyment – excellent work by the council and staff.

I thought it would be prudent to visit the area where the trees were planted and as someone who has been involved in forestry for over 20 years I would make the following observations: The trees were too old and mature to be planted; they were planted too close together; in approximately five-10 years an oak tree can reach a height of 25-30 feet resulting in the roots causing extensive damage to the path and nearby wall.

D Barnes, Newtown, Trowbridge.