EVERY tree in a 25-acre Lancashire woodland will be felled after an outbreak of disease.

Lancashire County Council made the decision after the Ramorum disease was found in larches at Churn Clough Reservoir between Burnley and Clitheroe.

The fungus-like pathogen can kill larch within one growing season.

It was first suspected after aerial surveys were carried out by the Foresty Commision in conjuction with the Food and Environment Research Agency, then confirmed by experts at ground level.

The only effective control measure is to fell the trees before the next spores release in the autumn.

Councillor Tim Ashton of Lan-cashire County Council, which is responsible for the land, said: “We fully understand that a felling operation on this scale will cause concern to local people and many visitors to Sabden and Pendle Hill.

“We will let people know when the work is due to start, and keep them informed of progress through the media and public notices.”

Signs will be put up with guidelines on how visitors can help to prevent the spread of disease on their boots, bicycle wheels and dog’s paws.

There have also been findings of the disease on other plants, such as rhododendron nearby, and investigations are continuing into other suspected sites in north west England.

The Churn Clough outbreak is the second confirmed finding on larch in England outside the South West.

The next nearest is 60 miles away in the Peak District.

Dr John Morgan, head of the Forestry Commission’s Plant Health Service, said he could not be sure of the full implications of these outbreaks yet but said the threat posed was “serious”.

He said: “I continue to encourage everyone involved with tree and forest management to remain vigilant for signs of the disease, not just in larch trees, but also in other susceptible plants, particularly rhododendron and bilberry.”

Anyone who has any questions can contact the council's country-side team on 01772 533919.