What can we do to save the ash tree in Britain?

Under attack from both the fungal disease ash dieback and the emerald ash borer beetle, the tree’s future looks bleak. But some experts believe there is hope – and that measures can be taken to alleviate the devastation

Telltale signs … early symptoms of ash dieback. Photograph: David Mark / Alamy/Alamy

Stephen Moss

Wednesday 23 March 2016 15.42 GMT Last modified on Wednesday 23 March 2016 19.10 GMT

Reports that the ash tree is “set for extinction in Europe” have sent a shiver down the spine of everyone who loves and values Britain’s trees. For older readers like me, the stories are an unwelcome reminder of 40 years ago, when another familiar tree – the English elm – was devastated by Dutch Elm Disease. Read more.