Storm Amy and a Two Ton Winch.
We got off relatively lightly here in Norfolk, as Amy wreaked havoc throughout the uk.
However, as she passed our way, she did manage to topple this 25 metre scots pine and deposit it in the top of a sweet chestnut. Of course, it had to be suspended over the footpath and of course it had to be dealt with on a Sunday morning when foot traffic was at its hight.
A horrible job to be honest. The only safe approach is from behind or well to the side. It's definitely a winch rather than a chainsaw task. So over a period of several hours we guided walkers along an alternative route while we winched!
We winched this way and that, backwards and to the side, pulling at the base and then up the trunk.
And little by little we eased the pine from the chestnut's snaggy grip, until finally, she fell to the ground with a resounding thump!
You work towards this moment for hours, but it's still a surprise!