DISEASE is killing off trees in an unusually severe outbreak of Dutch elm disease.

Brighton’s 17,000 elms are at risk and the infection could wipe out thousands of historic trees if it is not brought under control.

Last year, one of the city’s two 400-year-old elms, known as The Twins, was felled in Preston Park after contracting Dutch elm disease. It was planted in the reign of James I.

Tree experts said the disease had been brought on this year by recent hot weather.

Brighton and Hove City Council is calling on residents to help by acting as “the council’s extra eyes”.

Councillor Anne Pissaridou said: “Elm disease is fairly easy to spot if you know the signs and what to look for.

“We’re asking you to become an extra pair of eyes and help flag up any trees – on both public and private land – you believe may be infected.

“We can then take immediate action to inspect the tree, and if infected, remove it and stop the disease spreading.

“Your swift action could help save the lives of many of our elm trees.”

Residents can also help by not buying elm logs or garden furniture made from elm wood.

If you suspect an elm tree is diseased, you can email ElmDisease@brighton-hove.gov.uk with a photograph of the tree, a close up of the symptoms and a precise location.

How to tell if a tree is diseased

• Symptoms start to show in early June, and the disease season lasts until September

• Early infection signs include wilting and browning or yellowing of foliage, or a tree losing its leaves in early summer while nearby elms are still full and healthy looking