Sir – Further to the letter of David Gautrey regarding the felling of the trees by Network Rail (December 12), and Hugh Jaeger’s justification (Letters, December 19). I consider Network Rail’s response is totally unsatisfactory.

The letter refers to the trees as being only a few metres deep, and, therefore, an ineffective noise barrier.

The function of the trees was to screen the trains, as well as the conspicuous and ugly fence. The attraction of the meadow is dependent on the surrounding screen planting which creates its rural character.

This idyllic natural landscape in the heart of Oxford, has not only been compromised by Network Rail, but also by the Oxford University student flats.

The character of the meadow has been seriously eroded by two organisations,who have been responsible for desecrating the city’s most important asset.

John Thompson, Secretary, Forest of Oxford