WE sympathise with Mr Rogers over the loss of the tree which gave him and others so many benefits (March 17).

Imagine our distress when permission was given to our neighbours to destroy 23 healthy mature trees (most with tree protection orders on them) which have for many years provided a habitat for lots of birds and other wildlife, as well as protecting our homes from ever-increasing noise and pollution.

No longer will we look on to a green 'air cleaning' area, but on to railway yards, smelling fumes not oxygen.

But all koala bears living in Clifton can rejoice - a small eucalyptus is going to be planted.

Mr and Mrs M J Barker,

Ousecliffe Gardens, York.

Updated: 10:05 Monday, March 22, 2004