20/12/2025
The Churchyard Sycamore Tree - an update
The tree was inspected in 2023, but it appears the tree surgeon did not do a full survey, and retired without completing a written report. The sycamore was due for a survey this autumn, but fell before the tree surgeon had been. We are deeply thankful that no-one was injured when the sycamore fell, and grateful to Tom Beesom for arranging a swift removal of the majority of the tree. In the new year, we will have the stump removed and a full tree survey of the churchyard, taking appropirate action as recommended.
The wall fell onto the track leading between Ebrington Manor and the village. Simon Mayo of Forever Memorials was among three masons asked to quote for repairing the wall, but was the only contractor able to come quickly to remove stone from the Manor path and make it safe for family and guests to use. Ebrington churchyard is a special place for Simon as he has relatives buried there, and his quote includes rebuilding 4 meters of wall and 4 meters of new stone carved to match the current capping stones which smashed in the fall. You will see Simon working on the wall through January.
Although fully covered by insurance through Ecclesiastic (including public liability insurance), because there was no certification of safety for the sycamore, Ecclesiastical will not cover the cost of rebuilding the wall, which is £9,800. The church will pay this cost in full, as we are at fault for not ensuring we were fully aware of its condition.
This has been a shock for the PCC as well as for me. I promise we will be looking at our processes at the next PCC meeting and through the coming months. It is vital that the churchyard is a safe place for all to walk, and I can assure you that we will arrange a tree survey from a qualified tree surgeon as soon as possible.
In the mean time, if you have any questions or comments, please send them to me at the email below."
With best wishes for Christmas, Dana
Revd Canon Dana Delap
[email protected]
01386 700676
