The horse chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum) has its origin in the Balkans and western Asia. It was introduced into Britain during the 16th century and is now widely spread in woodlands, parks and gardens. Highly valued for the beauty of its fruits, flowers and foliage, it has never found fame or fortune in mainstream timber and woodworking industries. Britain's horse chestnut trees have largely escaped serious insect pest problems. However, in July 2002 a householder in Wimbledon, south-west London alerted the authorities when one in her garden looked to be experiencing an early autumn. The Central Science Laboratory subsequently confirmed the first recorded presence of the horse chestnut leaf miner (Cameraria ohridella) in the UK and the Forestry Commission announced an 'exotic pest alert' to specialists working in the field.
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