Jon Boaden

Thank you to all who responded to my initial post - much appreciated.

Yes - the scar hole 20-25 feet high on the right of the trunk was big enough for barn owls to live in for some years, and peer out at the house. The tree will be a huge loss when it goes.

Thanks Steve

I should add that I am in Newcastle upon Tyne

I have a large beech tree in my garden (pictured) that has a lot of fungus at its base (pictured). I am told that the fungus is meripilus and that the tree may have to come down as a result. I would be very sad to see it come down, but clearly it will have to if there is a significant risk (it is near a road). Can anyone suggest an expert I can consult to assess the risk, carry out tests, and recommend appropriate action.