I APPLAUD John Moore for managing single-handedly to save an ancient oak tree 30 years ago (Letters, November 22).

Residents of Fulford were trying to do the very same thing with the copper beech trees at Connaught Court, but unfortunately he (and the RMBI) failed even to acknowledge the personal letters and e-mails which were sent to him asking for a stay of execution on the trees.

Did he actually see the healthy wood evident after felling? Did he see the independent council report on the trees which stated that they were healthy or did he rely on the developers report?

I congratulate him for planting trees for his grandchildren - could he tell us how many new trees have been planted in the grounds of Connaught Court in recent years?

Is he aware that another five of the oldest trees on this land are earmarked for felling in the next few years and does he know how many further trees will either be chopped down or put at risk because of his development plans?

Does he think that destroying a rare green corridor in Fulford and building apartment blocks and houses which encroach into the floodplain, and therefore reduce its capacity, is good environmental practice?

Does he believe that the effect of hundreds of extra cars polluting the air and causing even more traffic congestion within conservation areas, is good for the environment?

Finally, does he think that selling off the grounds of his care home and causing genuine and severe distress to many of his residents is consistent with the objectives of his organisation which is to care for older people?

Mary Urmston,

Fulford Park,

York.

Updated: 11:17 Friday, November 26, 2004