The council says it is being forced to remove nearly 50 trees from the grounds of a crematorium.

The 48 trees, which are a mixture of species, are being removed from Overdale Crematorium partly due to Ash dieback disease, and partly due to the stress caused by wet winders and very dry summer spells.

Left as they are, the council says that the trees pose a significant risk to public safety.

Ash dieback is a fungal infection which can lead to the death of a tree.

There is no evidence that it is harmful to humans or animals, however there is a risk that dying branches could fall from the tree and cause injury or worse.

The works mean that there may be some temporary restrictions on access to the gardens of remembrance and temporary closures to one of the chapels, although the council says that every effort will be made to avoid disruption.

There may also be some noise disturbance, although this will be avoided as much as possible during services.

The work, subject to weather conditions, is due to take place on Saturday, December 10 to Wednesday, December 14 and again on Saturday, December 17 to Wednesday, December 21.

Cllr Nadim Muslim, the council’s executive cabinet member for environmental services, said: “We apologise for any inconvenience and disturbance during the works and appreciate that coming up to Christmas is not the ideal time.

“However, the safety of our residents is our top priority and leaving the trees in this dangerous state is not an option.

“Every effort will be made to keep disruption to a minimum.”

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