Yesterday we had some tree surgery done on the Common to 2 trees which had the potential to fall across paths over which they stood.
A big double trunk Oak had one long heavy branch which was leaning a long way out over the path and had been progressively splitting away from the upright trunk. This could come down so had a potential to be dangerous though it would have to be very unfortunate timing but also such a violent split it would tear the side out of the tree and leave it open to decay. So it was removed to save the tree which will now be able to grow as an upright specimen.
The other is a dying Cherry. It looked strong but was dying back as the cambium was decaying and in a high wind could eventually fall across the path. If it had been in a less public area we would have left it as dead standing timber which is good for wildlife.
So, in particular with the Oak there is some firewood for anyone with an axe, a bit of spare energy and a wheel barrow.
Graham Thorne