I WRITE in support of Karl Williams’ letter (October 31) with particular reference to Great Malvern.

The situation has got worse over the years as there is a very casual attitude both by property owners and Malvern Hills District Council over the question of the management of garden trees and shrubs, or rather the lack of it.

One of the main attractions of our town to residents and visitors alike are its many vistas, some of which have been marred or even lost by excessive tree growth.

As Karl Williams points out, Malvern Hills District Council is quick to tell property owners what they should not do, but fails to tell others what they should be doing about looking after spreading growth over public land and that of their neighbours.

This should include the responsibility to clear up fallen leaves and branches.

Surely it falls within the remit of the council to ensure that footpaths are kept clear for the safety of pedestrians by instructing owners to cut back overhanging growth.

Road signs and street names are often obscured by shrubs and trees – is the council interested in the problem? It appears not!

I am a tree lover but it is vital to give thought to species and placement; a specimen that has the potential to grow to 200ft has no place in an urban garden.

Some of the trees in Great Malvern would not look out of place in Westonbirt Arboretum!

We live on the Moelfryn or Bald Hills, but in the time I have known them I have to climb ever higher to enjoy the views of of Herefordshire and the Severn Plain.

Please let us not allow careless tree management spoil our priceless jewel that is Great Malvern.

Ken Wright

Malvern