Radical measures to combat tree disease

The environment minister is pleading for patience from those who use the Isle of Man's plantations.

Phil Gawne is anticipating some disruption because of the extensive felling needed to rid the Island of its larch tree population.

It is to stop the spread of the potentially devestating disease phytophthora ramorum, or sudden oak death.

Work has already started on Tholt-y-Will and it is thought Axnfell will be next.

Entire forests, or sections of them, are likely to be shut while the trees are taken down.

Mr Gawne says it is an absolutely necessary measure.