_ (1) The subject tree had been examined on several occasions and had been diagnosed as suffering with Phytophthora Pseudomonas, more commonly referred to as bleeding canker tree had been given a life expectancy of between nought and ten years At that time it was not considered to be a danger; but will have ultimately been felled. The

(2) Post incident the tree was examined by an expert Arboriculturalist who determined that the tree was severely decayed at 8.5 metres in height with insufficient sound timber at this point to support the weight of the tree. The decay was caused by a fungal infection Polyporus Squamosus. The decay was longstanding and progressive The decay was hidden from sight, but the tree contained visible defects worthy of closer inspection, which would have led to the discovery of this condition, and a recommendation for it to be felled as a matter of urgency: (3) am informed that your view is that the risk of people killed by falling trees is extremely low, in fact one in ten million, but recognise the duty of holders who are required to take reasonable steps to minimise the risk Notwithstanding this recommend that your organisation as major influence nationally on tree safety, bring to the attention of those who are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of trees, particularly in places frequented and used by the public, and for trees that are abut and overhang a highway, when such a tree or trees are recognised as having fault or disease, that such trees are automatically examined and tested for Polyporus Squamosus and if such a disease is identified then the tree should be recommended for felling: (4) It Is apparent that the condition Polyporus Squamosus may well be mistaken for the more common condition Phytophthora Pseudomonas or bleeding canker, the urgency of felling might not be considered: (5) It would be helpful if you would bring this case and my recommendations to those organisations that you can influence_