Tree plea

THE impressive banyan tree on Cheung Chau's Tung Wan Road is, together with the burning incense and little altars at its foot, not only a good luck charm for the villagers, but also one of the island's best-known landmarks, which gives said road its special flair.

To cut it down, which is what the Fire Services Department wants, would be a crime not only against Cheung Chau's tourism interests, but also against any basic respect for the island's special environment.

The excuse of the department to broaden the road is almost ridiculous; the other side of the island can easily be reached over other existing and broad enough roads, by Cheung Chau's small fire engines.

Therefore keep that tree as it is.

LUKAS SCHWARZACHER Cheung Chau