Sir - Good journalism should always report factually and without bias, but, there is also scope for a good journalist to add to these qualities the willingness to report and challenge the reader to think. So - congratulations to John Phillpott on his recent page in `yourweekend`.

The on-going destruction of mature trees and hedgerows throughout the city, whether for reasons of "leaf dropping", road improvements or simply "spoiling the view" has certainly highlighted a real crisis of confidence in our council`s ability to protect our natural environment.

Before the wanton destruction progresses still further (remember - it can take 40 or more years for a tree to reach the maturity of those lost) lets stop and take stock of exactly why we are allowing this desecration. His page was hard hitting and it had to be - so wake up Worcester and think!

Dr. Malcolm Nixon

Worcester