.jpg)
When it comes to working as a tree surgeon, there are many known dangers and risks associated with the job. Professionals often must work at great heights and the equipment can be dangerous if it is not used correctly. In this regard, being a tree surgeon is not a job for the faint-hearted, but there are other issues and problems that can make the job more difficult than it would seem. Sometimes there will be emotional issues for people to deal with and this has been reinforced by a case in Eastbourne. One resident is extremely angry with the local council after a tree surgeon was sent to a property to remove a tree. The tree surgeon had been sent without consultation with the property owner and the tree held emotional and sentimental reasons. Mike Ledgerwood, who is 76 years old, spoke to local media saying;” I’m fighting against them chopping the tree down. It’s been there for 20 years. My beloved wife Susan planted it there when we came here. The birds feed off it. They have sent a tree surgeon to my home without consulting me to not only trim my tree but to chop it down. “ Sometimes the tree isn’t the most important issue. Mr Ledgerwood also spoke to local media about the incident and the fact that the local council has said that they may still remove the tree at some point in the future. “I’m really angry, we have been here all these years and have an unblemished record as tenants. I’m at my wit’s end.” The property owner has threatened to tie himself to the tree until there is a resolution to the problem. There is no doubt that the tree holds significance to Mr Ledgerwood but as is often the case, there is more than one side to the story. Yes, the fact that it was planted by the man’s late wife and various family pets have been buried under the tree makes an argument for the retention of the tree. However, the fact that the tree causes problems for other property owners means that there is also an argument to remove the tree or at least pare it back in some way. Sometimes there is a need for emotional support. The local council issued a statement to local media stating that the tree has been pared back and that they will consult with the property owner in the future if any further work is required. The statement read; “We understand the sentimental attachment Mr Ledgerwood has with this tree. The tree has not been removed or cut down. “It has been cut back this week to avoid any further damage to the property and we will consult with him on how this will be managed in the long-term.” While there are many happy moments for tree surgeons in their role, there can also be difficult moments. When personal emotions come into play, your everyday job can be challenging, and it is important that tree surgeons act in the right manner, although it is often a struggle to say what is right or wrong.