Log fires endanger ancient oak tree

An historic sessile oak tree in Bruce Castle Park has been damaged by three separate fires within the space of a week.

At approximately 500 years-old, the asymmetrical tree is Tottenham’s oldest oak.

Upon hearing news of the first fire, last month, Klaus-Michael Kuerner, chair of Friends of Bruce Castle Park said: “The oak was already in a fragile state.

“[After the second fire] I went over with my partner to remove any residual branches and loose wood. My thinking was if it’s happening in the night and there are no branches around, it would make the situation [of starting another fire] much more difficult.”

It is believed that the fires were started ‘irresponsibly’ by an individual who was escorted from the park on 7th November.

According to Haringey Council, the fires were not believed to be a targeted ‘prank’ as part of Bonfire Night or fireworks celebrations.

In addition to the oak becoming a symbol for Tottenham, it has also gained national importance, having come second place in the Woodland Trust’s England Tree of the Year competition, in 2018.

An arboricultural survey conducted in 2019 recommended that any trees that cast shade on the oak should be pruned, and vehicles should be prevented from driving within 30 metres of it.

A spokesperson from resident tree group, Tottenham Trees said: “[We are] very sad that the majestic 500-year-old oak tree in Bruce Castle Park has recently been endangered by the reckless lighting of fires beneath it.

“As the oldest oak tree in Tottenham, growing in the heart of Tottenham’s first public park, the Bruce Castle Oak is of immense value to local people and wildlife. However, we are deeply concerned about its long-term survival if it continues to be subjected to attacks.”

Tottenham Trees would like to see a sign placed near the tree explaining its age, history, and importance to biodiversity, in the hope that this would encourage people to treat the historic oak with care and respect.

The group would also like an arboriculturist to assess the health and vitality of the tree, following the recent fires.

Haringey Council has installed temporary fencing around the trunk of the tree, to help prevent a recurrence. It believes no lasting damage was done to the oak, and is taking advice from interested parties on how to improve the protection of the tree from damage by the public.

The deputy leader of Haringey Council and cabinet member for the environment, transport and the climate emergency, Mike Hakata, said: “I urge all our residents and visitors to the borough to respect the local environment and wildlife habitats in our parks and green, open spaces. By doing so, you will be helping to preserve and protect some historic and much-loved landmarks such as the oak tree in Bruce Castle Park.

“Given its importance and symbolism to the local community, it would be an absolute tragedy if a tree with this heritage and stature should be damaged or lost owing to the irresponsible actions of a few selfish and thoughtless individuals.”

The council expects to implement a suitable approach to protecting the tree in the coming months.