A DEADLY tree disease has been found in East Lancashire.

Ash dieback disease has been found in Ash trees in Boundary Street, Hill Street and Back Duke Street in Colne.

Pendle Council has revealed it will have to cut the trees down this month.

Signs of ash dieback include leaf loss not connected with autumn leaf fall, the top of the tree dying back and damage on the tree’s bark.

Pendle Council’s principal environment officer Lee Johnson said: "The fungus is deadly and these ash trees have been attacked by it.

"As the fungus spreads it weakens the wood and the tree succumbs to pests and other fungi.

"The ash trees in this area are unfortunately rotting and we need to make sure people are safe by removing them.

"Luckily there are some healthy young hazel, oak and birch trees growing under some of the ash trees and we’re going to let them take the place of the ash.

“We’ll keep an eye on how these trees get on.

“They won’t be affected by ash dieback and with more light above them, they should flourish."