TREES are part of what makes the English landscape so beautiful. And in our cities they provide a much-needed splash of green.

It is right that people can complain if a much-loved local tree is threatened. And it is right there should be stiff penalties for anyone who wrongly cuts down a tree protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).

But sometimes, trees grow so big they become dangerous or - as in the case highlighted today - overshadow homes.

Some locals are upset that homeowner Ian Yeowart cut down the walnut in his Earswick garden.

But he followed procedure by appealing against the TPO. And having won his appeal he had every right to cut the tree down. That's what rules are for.