I HAVE been asked by two residents to investigate if there is any way that trees overlooking their properties can be pruned.

Warrington Borough Council has refused to help and is keeping them in the dark. One resident is even prepared to pay for the work to be done. Warrington’s arborocultural officer writes: ‘The council’s position is... we cannot permit outside contractors to undertake works on borough council land and as your complaint is not deemed a health and safety priority no action can be taken at the present time due to budget restraints’.

One house is constantly in the shade throughout the winter and in total darkness during the summer. This has caused the resident to seek medical help for depression.

The second resident and his wife are elderly and they have a massive tree outside, they get no sunlight on their property for six months of the year. Both residents are not asking for the trees to be felled or pruned like other parts of Warrington where the trees look like they have had a number one haircut. They simply want them shaped and conserved so that more light can get through.

The strange thing is 400 metres away from one of the properties 18 willow trees have just been felled. They all appeared to be in good health only a week ago.

Why is Warrington Borough Council keeping residents who appreciate the lovely surroundings of Cinnamon Brow in the dark?

GEOFF SETTLE Cinnamon Brow