The footpath through Clapps Wood will be closed during November to allow work to fell a number of ash trees affected by ash dieback.

Around 60 per cent of the trees in the town council-owned wood are having to be cut down.

A council spokesperson said: ’It is with sadness that the council, on the recommendation of the specialist who carried out a survey earlier in the year, have agreed to the felling of the diseased trees, the cost being met from reserves. The footpath through the woodland will be closed for the duration of the work which is planned to start on November 9.’ The council is in the process of drawing up a scheme to replant the gaps left behind.