This is a new statement from the protesters themselves outlining current conditions at the tree-sit in Dalkeith, including the status of the legal campaign, tree-fellings, bats, and the roadshow. On Monday 21st November a number of trees were felled to make way for the Scottish Executive’s A68 Dalkeith Bypass. The trees that were cut down have been identified as potential bat roost and include ancient oaks over 200 years old. The trees appear not to have been cut in accordance with Scottish Natural Heritage and the Executive’s own guidelines. SNH have been reluctant to tell their paymasters to follow the law. We believe that due to low temperatures the bats have already started hibernating. In response to the destruction and SNH’s inaction, trees under immediate threat have been occupied. The occupation is part of a wide ranging campaign involving different groups and individuals from Dalkeith and around the world. A community roadshow has visited local areas to promote a model of development which values sustainability, public transport and community involvement. The roadshow exposed the Scottish Executive’s and Midlothian Council’s failure to enhance public transport or reduce dependence on the private car, preferring to create dormitory communities and a new road. This type of development, in the absence of the promised multi-modal approach will certainly lead to more traffic in Dalkeith on the A68 and on the city bypass, making it impossible to achieve air quality improvements and CO2 emission targets. Occupations have occurred at three points on the road where habitats are under threat. All three sites have been served with eviction notices. Eviction is imminent as is the loss of our natural habitat. Defences are being erected to resist eviction while the few remaining legal options are being investigated. We urgently need support in many different forms. Come stand in the way of the bulldozers, get up a tree and help defend it, support us in the legal campaign, donate us money, chocolate, blankets, rope, tarpaulins, hot food, tinned food for eviction, nuts, love, mobile phones and credit, visits, tools, vehicle use, climbing equipment, water and your energy. The trees need YOU! Come to the woods.