Cuttings: Branch lines

FROM the Dendrologist's Newsletter I learn that Dutch elm disease has hit the Isle of Man, though nobody knows how, because the beetle responsible for spreading the disease is said to be unable to fly more than five miles. I also learnt that London's tree officers are campaigning for the listing and protection of the capital's ancient yew trees (contact Russell Ball on 081- 424 1759 with any likely specimens), and that Westminster Council is going to phase out plane trees in the borough and plant flowering cherries instead. This newsletter, an invaluable source of information for anyone interested in trees, is available (four issues a year for pounds 3) from the Treasurer at PO Box 341, Chesham, Bucks HP5 2RD.