Regulars to the Pavilion Gardens will have noticed that the large beech tree that dominated the children’s play area has been felled. It was with great regret that the Friends of Pavilion Gardens heard from the tree experts that this was indeed necessary.

The tree was probably planted as part of Edward Milner’s original layout of the site and was around 150 years old.

Experts have been monitoring the tree since 2005 when an inspection of it by the Arboricultural Officer identified that the tree had fungal fruiting bodies Ganodrema adspersum and meripilus giganteus present on the buttress roots and stem. These fungi are associated with the decay of the stem and base of the tree.

The probability of the tree failing was becoming more and more likely. As the tree was within falling distance of play equipments, footpaths and a bench, it was felt it was too dangerous to leave the tree standing in an area of the park which had a lot of visitors.

However, the Friends of Pavilion Gardens are hoping to raise money to turn what remains of the trunk into a sculpture. A new tree will be planted to grow alongside the sculpture and in years to come it will hopefully grow to be an equally beautiful tree.

If you are interested in joining the Friends of Pavilion Gardens please contact Sally on 0845 129 7777 ext. 2205