31/07/2026
A reminder that trees don’t always fail without warning.
Last year, we were instructed to carry out a professional tree inspection for a local events venue.
During our inspection, we identified significant structural defects, including extensive decay, large cavities and fungal fruiting bodies at the base of this mature willow. Based on the condition of the tree, our recommendation was that it should be removed as a matter of urgency due to the risk of structural failure.
After submitting our report, we heard nothing further.
This week, over a year later, we received a call to say the tree had suffered catastrophic failure.
Thankfully, no one was injured.
This particular tree stood in an area where people regularly gathered, including wedding parties using it as a backdrop for photographs. The timing could easily have been very different.
As arborists, our role isn’t just to remove trees—it’s to identify risks before they become incidents. Trees with internal decay can still appear healthy from a distance, which is why professional inspections are so important for landowners, schools, businesses, golf courses and public spaces.
We’re simply grateful that, on this occasion, the outcome wasn’t far worse.
If you’re responsible for mature trees on your property and have concerns about their condition, don’t ignore the warning signs. A professional inspection can provide peace of mind and, in some cases, prevent a serious accident.
