The impressive Willow tree at the back of the Town Mills pub has clearly had enough.
The deciduous tree in the ‘Pocket Park’ just may have had one too many, as it collapsed into the River Anton over the weekend.
There were no injuries or damage to nearby property as it fell in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Despite its huge trunk size, the tree is thought to only be around 30 years old. COuncil workers were quick to erect orange barriers around the area as a large hole was created as the integrity of the roots failed.
Raindrops falling to the ground from the branches of Willow resemble tears; the reason why ‘weeping willow’ got its name.
The once proud decidous tree is now expected to be removed, but contractors will be cautious of the variety of species that have made their home around the banks of the Anton.
Local environmentalist Graeme Davis says, “It’s likely that the wet weather made the ground very soft and it just couldn’t support its own weight anymore. A Willow will re-grow if left to its own devices.”
The tree which traditionally symbolises nature, fertility and life began deteriorating some years ago.
Large parts of the Willow collapsed five years ago (2014) and fallen branches have been home to a growing ecosystem of animals and insects around the Anton waterway at the back of the local pub.
A member of Town Mills bar staff told us, “It was fine on Friday for the fireworks, so much have come down overnight on Saturday”.
Due to ability to absorb large quantities of water, willow is often planted in flooded areas or areas that need to be drained. Strong, deep and wide root also prevents erosion of the soil.
The tree would have been planted to help the soil around the riverbank. Willows absorb large quantities of water and are often planted in flooded areas or areas that need to be drained; their deep and wide roots help prevent erosion of the soil.
