'Diseased' ash trees being felled at Came Woods in Dorset

The trees in Came Wood, between Weymouth and Dorchester, are reported to be infected with ash dieback.

Stacks of logs can be seen just past metal fencing, and signs read 'danger forestry work'.

A sign placed nearby states that the estate is cutting down the infected trees as part of its woodland plan, and will replace them with a mix of native species.

Ash dieback is caused by a fungal organism called Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. The disease causes leaf loss and crown dieback in affected trees and can lead to tree death. The fungal disease is carried on the wind and by the transportation of infected trees and was first found in the UK in 2012.

The sign at the site reads: "We are currently felling diseased ash in Came Wood. The trees being felled are suffering from ash dieback that leads to tree mortality and failure.

"The works are in accordance with the estate's long-term woodland plan, approved by the Forestry Commission.

"In addition, we are clearing trees from a number of ancient monuments with the support of English Heritage. All areas have been surveyed prior to harvesting. On completion of the works, any ground damage will be restored with the open areas replanted with a mix of native species.

"These works whilst significant will assist in the recovery of a number of habitats and species that have been in decline due to heavy shading and in time a more resilient woodland able to better cope with climate change, pests and diseases.

"Thank you for your patience and understanding."

The sign at Came Wood (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)

Ash dieback is characterised by the premature loss of leaves from the outer parts of the crown - top and sides - accompanied by long diamond-shaped lesions or areas of sunken and discoloured bark on twigs.

These lesions girdle twigs and small branches, starving the leaves above of water and nutrients and causing whole branches to die. In mature trees, it is the new growth that is affected.

The disease is classified as 'notifiable' by DEFRA, which means that any suspected cases must be reported to the appropriate plant health authorities - either the Forestry Commission Plant Health Service or the Tree Health Diagnostic and Advisory Service.