We have some sad news

We were very sad to receive the news on Monday that part of the Publow Oak at Great Avon Wood had collapsed as a result of the storms and high winds over the weekend.

The tree is a treasured part of the local landscape, enjoyed by everyone from those who walk their dogs daily to visitors to Avon Needs Trees projects. So many have been inspired by its size and beauty, and left wondering what the tree has witnessed over those hundreds of years that it has been in existence.

We also recognise that it is part of the lifecycle of ancient trees for them to undergo significant changes and to continue to thrive for many decades to come, reborn in a new form.

In some way it is lucky that the Publow Oak suffered damage on ANT land. Understanding and looking after trees is very much our bread and butter. We have a network of experts on hand who are able to advise on the best way forward for the oak, the best measures to take to inform its long term health.

In the short term, ANT has cordoned off the area for the safety of passers by, in case of further collapse. We have had an initial survey by a trained specialist to assess the state of the damage and to make recommendations.

We will continue to update you all on our progress with this ongoing situation, the recommendations that have been made by experts and the remedial action that we might take to ensure the oak lives on to its fullest.

In the meantime, we’d love to hear what the oak means to you. We’re sure the site has seen its fair share of picnics, proposals, maybe even weddings! We’d love to hear your stories and what the Publow Oak has meant to you over the years. 

Please do leave your thoughts, well wishes and stories in the comments.

Photo credit: Richard Goldthorpe, Vicki Cracknell