CHECKS have been carried out in Bournemouth’s award-winning parks and gardens to detect signs of the devastating disease which has been causing damage to ash trees across Europe.

The council’s service director for parks Gary Josey said: “Thankfully we have no signs of the disease in Bournemouth. However all staff working in open spaces have been asked to be vigilant and report any possible cases for further investigation.”

Ash Dieback disease was first noticed in this country earlier this year. The symptoms include early leaf curl, dead branches and lesions to tree trunks.

If you have concerns for trees on private land in Bournemouth phone the planning team on 01202 451323.

Concerns relating to council managed trees should be directed to the parks team on 01202 451629.