CAMPAIGNERS have won a stay of execution for a group of horse chestnut trees earmarked for felling.

More than 140 residents attended a meeting of Great Harwood Area Council to make their views known about trees around Memorial Park.

Council officials wanted to cut the trees down to make way for a recreation ground. Then they discovered the 27 trees had been infected with a disease called Bulgarian canker.

Now they have decided not to fell any more trees until a report has been written and discussed with residents.

The move follows investigations by residents into the nature of the disease. Neighbours sent samples of bark from the felled trees to Forest Research and the Forestry Commission for diagnosis. They discovered there may be another diagnosis.

Ian Wilkinson, of Hindle Park Road, said: "We asked the council for more time so this new information could be considered, and they have agreed.

"We would actively encourage the council to remove trees that are dangerous, but we are pleased that a report on the management of all the trees in the area is being produced and that the residents of Great Harwood will have an input."

Coun Wyn Frankland, chairman of Great Harwood Area Council, said: "This is a complex matter but I feel sure we can reach a solution which will combine the residents' appreciation of the natural beauty of the trees and the park, with the council's duty to protect the health and safety of residents, and to safeguard the health of the remaining trees."

Steve Tanti, strategic director of community service, said: "There will be no more felling of other trees in the park, many of which are diseased, at the present time except where there is a clear threat to health and safety." A report will be presented to the next meeting of Great Harwood Area Council on Tuesday, August 5.