Box tree caterpillar

This is what the box tree caterpillar can do to an otherwise healthy box hedge. We had grown the hedge from just a few sprigs but the caterpillar attack started last year and has continued this year, despite us picking them off in their dozens. According to the RHS website, the box tree caterpillar is native to East Asia and became established in Europe in 2007. The first adult moth arrived in Britain the same year but it was not until 2011 that larvae were reported in private gardens in the home counties. They certainly seem to like this private garden in Surrey. The moth itself is quite attractive with white wings and a brown border. So,  we have completed the box tree moth survey and today I dug out the hedge as there's nothing left for the caterpillars to feed on!  Now we have to decide what to plant in its place.