8:20am Thursday 19th May 2011
By Alistair Shand
An investigation has been launched into the alleged poisoning of a landmark tree.
Outrage has erupted among residents at the attack on the 175-year-old protected oak tree, at the junction of Woodside Road and Elliott Street, Silsden.
Bradford Council has begun an inquiry after it was found five large holes had been drilled into the tree and chemicals poured into it.
The authority is appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
“It remains to be seen whether the poisoning will kill the entire tree,” said council arboricultural officer Simon Keenan.
“The tree is so important to the area that a number of residents have expressed strong concerns about what has happened.
“Unfortunately, as yet, we do not have any witnesses.”
District and Silsden town councillor Adrian Naylor supported the pleas for information.
“In this day and age this kind of act is totally unacceptable and you would think that someone drilling five large holes into the tree would draw attention,” he said. “If the tree does die I will do whatever I can to get it replaced.”
Many people have expressed their anger at the act on the silsden.net website.
Witnesses should contact Mr Keenan on (01274) 434297 or e-mail simon.keenan@bradford.gov.uk
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