Andy Collins

I'm not even a member, and I take it Dave isnt either, yet we sit here and came up with a simple plan in 5mins. The trouble with many organisations is that they are tied up in petty beurocracy which slows the wheels to a grinding halt. What I do know, gleaned from the hallowed pages of Arbtalk, is that many are disillusioned with the AA, and have been for some time. This would say to me that they need a radical shake-up, and change for the 21st century, clean off the rose-tinted specs and listen to the public. Without change, the AA would become just another dinosaur, top-heavy and feeble little limbs! I know Paul has had a trial by fire here, from various corners, and that was to be expected tbh, but I for one welcome his refreshing approach to the issues, and hope he can help instill the changes that will make us all wish to be a part of the AA.

I merely believe that if you had more AAAC's at whatever level it would generate more income, which in turn could then benefit the Aa and its members. Surely a grading system for AAAC would not confuse the public, but would be instantly recognisable amongst its ranks, all would be AAAC, but say Grade 1 (entry level) to Grade 5 (highest level) dependent on affordability. if my turnover is say 35k, yet I attain the same standard as a 300k business, why should I not become AAAC, yet the price should be pro rata based on turnover, and graded as such. Perhaps more could then justify the step towards AAAC, both financially and taking time to get systems in place? Sorry f I'm rambling, but I keep popping in and thinking of new bits to say:001_smile:

You havent had your pills this morning have you??

I think there seems to be 2 seperate camps on forum, those who seem against the AA and the way it portrays itself, and those who openly support it. I personally think the AA needs to listen to all sides, and by addressing certain issues may even be able to welcome aboard a higher membership. Many of us here care about the job we all do, to the point that we spend our free time laughing, joking and discussing it into the wee small hours. if the AA could harness this grass-roots enthusiasm, I'm sure it would have more success. I dont see why it cant adopt a multi-tiered system of approval, without watering down the AAAC status, so the smaller company could start off at an entry level, then as it grows could escalate to the heady heights of full approval. In this tight economy, we all have to look at our budgets, the AA included, and surely to gain more Approved contractors would boost the coffers, as well as its standing in the Arb community that it supports. Adapt and survive.

Wow that was quick!! I'd have the wheels on the exterior for 2 reasons, a) build up of mud will soon clog them and b) will be slightly more stable when being dragged on uneven ground. But looks promising Oh and the vice mount would need to be on the lid, not between the straps, would be a pita to sharpen the saw where you located it.

Any chance of you putting up a rough sketch diagram so we can see how the idea looks, when you get that far? May be easier for us to appraise it.

Thats ok, thats why you asked for help:001_smile:

our selves NOT selfs, too:thumbup1:

and Liability for Pulblic Liability Insurance. Its attention to detail that makes all the difference.

Too small, just looked at it on theiPod, and the Blackberry, can hardly see the detail. Think about what you wish people to see, ie on home page make sure your phone number stands out. Many cant be bothered to scroll through a site to search for a phone number. On the whole, a good attempt. I'd think about how the business name sounds too, James Hoddy (I know its your name but) sort of trips of the tongue as J Shoddy, and I dont think you want to be known as Shoddy Tree Care!!

I used to sub to a guy with a Fastrac with a 12" pto Timberwolf on the back. Used to go all over East Anglia with it, one good bit of kit.

Nice little arbtruck Liam,

having heard rumours the Mr McTree has a penchant for wearing tutus and high heels, I thought I wouldnt encourage him further.

I think thats more of a lurch, and we dont have a lurch thread...............yet:biggrin:

Believe me there is no difference between my dancing and my boxing, either way people get hurt:001_tt2:

You stirring Mctree?

Better to use a drop of water on a spark, than send the fire trucks to an inferno:biggrin:

I think there is a conflict of opinions here, some are contracted to fell, others wish to protest and protect. Each are entitled to decide where they stand. Lets not allow this conflict to spill over onto the forum. Education is the key here, enlightening one another in a positive manner has far more effect than a slanging match.

cheers Dave:biggrin:

Doesnt sound like you Pete:001_rolleyes:

I've read and re-read the article, and see no mention of the scenario being as you state. My interpretation is that he was felling trees, and a dead branch snapped out, killing him. Sad whatever way it happened.

A sad and timely reminder of the risks involved in our work. An important point when felling trees is that dead limbs will snag and snap away easily, and can catapult out quite a distance in any given direction. hence we clear safe exit routes, and get out of the way, hopefully. And dont forget, driving a wedge in can shake loose dead material, so watch the tree all the time.

I actually do agree that all attempts to protect ancient woodland should be made. But I also remove trees for a living, (and do quite a bit of re-planting) so I have a conflict of interests. I was joking about, hence my smiley, but this is obviously lost in translation here. Thanks for making all aware of this threat to an ancient habitat.

Or 2?

"A Woodsmans Tale" by John Cooper. This book is a compilation of short stories from 50years of tree work, from felling big trees, using big ex-military vehicles such as Matadors and Militants, to blowing large stumps and trees with explosives. Many of the stories are such that many of us can relate to, (well maybe not the explosives!!) but its an easy, interesting read with cartoons and pictures from back in the day. I bought this book from eBay for around a tenner. Well worth a read on these miserable eveinngs.