ONE of Monmouth’s most recognisable trees is being felled this morning.

Work has begun on cutting down the beech tree in St Mary’s churchyard this morning, Monday 12th November.

The tree, estimated to be around 100 years old, has been blighted by a disease that causes extensive damage to its root system while leaving little evidence above ground that the tree has become dangerous.

Giant polypore (Meripilus giganteus) is of particular concern because it can cause extensive internal damage. It infects and grows in the roots of mature broadleaf trees, with beech trees especially susceptible.

The full extent of the root damage may not be evident unless expensive excavations take place. The upper roots may appear sound despite extensive decay 50cm or more below the soil surface. Decayed roots have the consistency of a sponge.

Steve Wadley, an expert arborist has confirmed that the disease is a severe fungal disease which rots the root system and causes wind throw so its deemed very dangerous to trees.

“Beech Trees only last for around 100 years when not managed. The three usual suspects associated with this tree species are Meripilus, ganoderm or Ktetzschmaria fungus” he added.

National advice on this particular problem says that felling for safety reasons is usually the only option for infected trees in public access areas.